Emergencies don’t wait — but with the right preparation, you can stay in control when seconds count. Whether it’s a storm, fire, power outage, or medical crisis, your home should be a safe base, not a source of risk. This guide walks you through the essentials:
from building your emergency kit and creating a family plan, to securing your space and knowing when to act.
1. Build an Emergency Kit
Every home should have a ready-to-go kit. Store it in an easy-to-reach place (not the basement if you’re flood-prone). Include:
- Water: 1 gallon per person per day (3-day minimum)
- Food: Non-perishable items (canned goods, energy bars, dried fruit) — 3-day supply
- Light & Power: Flashlights, extra batteries, hand-crank or solar-powered radio
- First Aid Kit: Bandages, antiseptic, pain relievers, prescription meds (7-day supply)
- Tools: Multi-tool, duct tape, whistle, fire extinguisher
- Documents: Copies of ID, insurance, medical records (in a waterproof bag)
- Special Needs: Baby supplies, pet food, hearing aids, extra glasses
Pro tip: Check and refresh your kit every 6 months — mark it on your calendar.
2. Create a Family Emergency Plan
Talk with everyone in your household — adults and kids — so no one’s guessing when things go sideways.
- Pick two meeting spots: One right outside your home (fire), one outside your neighborhood (flood, evacuation)
- Choose an out-of-town contact: Someone everyone can check in with if local lines are down
- Practice your plan: Run fire drills, review evacuation routes, teach kids how to call 911
- Post key info: Write emergency numbers and meeting points on a whiteboard or fridge
3. Secure Your Home
Small fixes now can prevent big dangers later.
- Anchor heavy furniture: Secure bookshelves, TVs, and appliances to wall studs
- Shut-off locations: Know where your gas, water, and electrical shut-offs are — and how to use them
- Fire safety: Test smoke alarms monthly, replace batteries yearly, install carbon monoxide detectors
- Storm prep: Trim trees, clear gutters, reinforce garage doors, have storm shutters or plywood ready
- Lock it down: Keep doors and windows secure — a safe home isn’t just about emergencies, it’s about everyday safety
4. Stay Informed
Know what’s coming so you can act fast.
- Sign up for alerts: Use local emergency notification systems (like AlertTexas)
- Have a weather radio: NOAA Weather Radio gives real-time updates, even without cell service
- Follow trusted sources: Local news, NWS, and Texas Division of Emergency Management
5. Know When to Evacuate — and When to Shelter In Place
Not every emergency means running out the door.
- Evacuate if ordered or if your home is at risk (flooding, fire, chemical spill). Grab your kit, lock up, and go.
- Shelter in place during tornadoes, active threats, or airborne hazards. Go to an interior room, close doors, seal windows if needed, and stay tuned.
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