Day 2: Create a Communication Plan
Creating a clear family communication plan ensures everyone knows who to contact, where to go, and how to reconnect if normal communication fails during an emergency. When stress is high, simple and pre-decided instructions prevent confusion and save valuable time.
How Your Communication Plan Works
1. Choose an Emergency Contact
Select one trusted person outside your immediate area that everyone can call or message during an emergency.
2. Share Phone Numbers
Make sure every family member has each other’s numbers saved and written down.
3. Set a Meeting Point
Pick:
- One location near home
- One location outside your neighborhood
4. Carry a Contact Card
If phones die or networks fail, a physical card becomes your backup lifeline.
Printable Checklist
Communication Plan Checklist
- Choose a primary emergency contact
- Choose a backup contact
- Write down all family phone numbers
- Save contacts in every phone
- Decide a local meeting point
- Decide an out-of-area meeting point
- Print family contact cards
- Place one card in every bag and wallet
- Laminate or place the card inside a zip bag so rain or sweat won't ruin it.
Family Contact Card
- Names
- Phone Numbers
- Emergency Contact
- Meeting Point #1
- Meeting Point #2
- Medical Notes (optional)
- Keep it simple enough that a child can understand it.
