(NAPSI)—Developing an emergency communication plan—and practicing it—are critical to making sure the entire family knows what to do, how to reach each other, and where to meet in the event of an emergency.

America’s PrepareAthon!SM is a grassroots, community-based campaign for action to get people better prepared for disasters through hazard-specific group discussions, drills, and exercises. No matter where you live, work, learn, or worship, there are some simple actions to get yourself and your family prepared for emergencies and disasters:

• Sign up for local alerts and warnings from school, work, or your local government.
• Download the FEMA app for disaster resources and safety tips.
• Know how to get in touch with each other, especially if your family members happen to be in different locations, such as your home, school, house of worship, or work when disaster strikes.
• Identify and practice meeting in a safe and familiar place where your family can go for protection or to reunite.
• Create or update a wallet card with emergency numbers and an out-of-town point of contact. Make sure everyone in your family has their own card to carry with them.
• Build an emergency supply kit for you and each member of your family that meets their specific needs. Include items like food that doesn’t require refrigeration or cooking, water, medications, flashlights, and batteries.
• Know your community’s plans for evacuation and the evacuation route where you live.
• Plan with neighbors to help each other and share resources.

Visit the America’s PrepareAthon! website at ready.gov/prepare for more information.

Courtesy of America’s PrepareAthon! and the Federal Emergency Management Agency.