Prepare for Sandy with a Family Disaster Plan

October 26,2012; 6:47PM,EDT

When a hurricane threatens, a family disaster plan and a disaster supply kit should be ready in case you need to evacuate.
Make a family disaster plan.
The family disaster plan should outline what to do if an emergency situation causes you to leave your home. The plan should have plans of what route to take, where family members should meet if separated and what evacuation area you live in.
When planning your escape route, make sure you know of some safe places where you could stay along the way in case of an emergency. If you have to board your pets, be sure to plan your route to include the kennel location.
If you need to evacuate, leave as early as possible. Try not to wait for a mandatory evacuation order. The longer you wait, the more people will be on the roads. Be prepared to wait in traffic. If you need to make reservations, do this as early as possible. Hotels will fill rapidly if an emergency occurs.
Make a disaster kit.
In addition to a disaster plan, you should also stock a disaster kit. The kit should be taken with you if you need to evacuate.
The disaster kit should contain water, food, blankets, pillows, clothing, a first aid kit, flashlights, batteries, weather radio, cash and important documents.
You may want to include games and personal items. Be prepared if your family will have to stay in a shelter in the event of a major hurricane.
Be sure to plan ahead. Take pictures of your property and house before a hurricane and have them in your disaster kit. The photos will be useful to show the insurance company if any damage occurs.
Proper preparations before a hurricane will ensure a fast and smooth evacuation when the time comes.