Evacuation plans: Tips for emergency planning
If you don't have an emergency evacuation plan for your household, it's not too late to create one. Emergency evacuation plans can make an enormous difference in the event of a natural disaster or other emergency that necessitates you evacuating your home. The more prepared you are, the more peace of mind you'll have.
Here are some basic tips for emergency planning:
Conditions requiring an evacuation
The necessity of evacuating depends on many factors. They include the kind of emergency as well as the characteristics of the building you're in, such as the length of the building. Your evacuation plan needs to describe exact conditions requiring evacuation of people, pets and essential supplies.
What should be in an emergency go bag?
What are essential survival items? Here are some of the things to include in your go bag:
- Water (one gallon per person per day).
- Non-perishable food for several days.
- Hand-crank or battery-powered radio.
- First aid kit.
- Flashlights.
- Personal hygiene supplies.
- Extra batteries and chargers.
Evacuation guidelines
In addition to your emergency supply kit and diagrams, include a list of general guidelines and local evacuation instructions. These guidelines should have info on alternate routes and how to contact emergency services.
How to make an evacuation plan diagram
The simplest way to make an evacuation plan diagram is to start with a basic blueprint or floor plan of your home. Clearly label items like stairwells, elevators, sprinklers, roof access and fire alarms for easy reference. You'll also want to draw arrows to guide people out of the building as quickly and safely as possible.
Specific emergency evacuation plan procedures
If you have pets, include them in your evacuation plans by creating a separate emergency kit, including bowls and a designated carrier or leash. Keep your car up to date on regular maintenance like oil changes, so it's in top condition in case an emergency occurs.
It's also a good idea to keep an extra few gallons of gasoline and an additional spare tire to handle any issues.
Keeping a detailed emergency plan for your home will help you expect the unexpected. The more prepared you are, the better you'll be able to respond in stressful situations.
About the Author
Daniel Martin, Higgins Group Private Brokerage, Licensed in CT, Lic. #RES.6767971
With over two decades of experience in Connecticut real estate, Daniel Martin is a seasoned Realtor at Higgins Group Private Brokerage, renowned for his exceptional market insight and unwavering client dedication. A lifelong Connecticut resident, Daniel's deep roots in the community, coupled with his extensive professional background, provide an invaluable advantage to both buyers and sellers across Fairfield and New Haven Counties.
Daniel's distinguished career is marked by consistent achievement, earning him the prestigious Connecticut Magazine 5 Star Realtor award from 2014 to 2025. He is a perennial Top Producer, recognized as both a Top Listing Agent and Top Selling Agent, a testament to his strategic approach and keen understanding of market dynamics. His expertise spans a broad spectrum of real estate needs, including guiding First Time Home Buyers, navigating transactions for Single and Multi-Family Homes, Land, New Construction, New Residential Developments, Condominiums, Downsizing, and Rentals.
Beyond his impressive track record, Daniel's professional affiliations include memberships with the National Association of REALTORS (NAR), Connecticut Association of REALTORS (CAR), Bridgeport Board of Realtors, Smartmls and Greenwich MLS. His foundational education in real estate from Naugatuck Valley Community College, complemented by studies at Connecticut School of Electronics and Housatonic Community College, underpins his comprehensive understanding of the industry.
Daniel's unique blend of customer service acumen and technological proficiency sets him apart. He leverages every available marketing resource to ensure his clients' homes gain maximum exposure and stand out in the competitive market.
When not orchestrating successful real estate ventures, Daniel cherishes time with his family, including his wife, two children, and four grandchildren. A passionate musician and golf enthusiast, he embodies the vibrant spirit of the Connecticut communities he serves. Daniel's network extends globally, allowing him to facilitate referrals anywhere in the world.
