“Where is everybody?” Hopefully, you or your family will not have to ask that question during a disaster. Would you be able to reach family members, friends or caregivers to check on them or let them know where you are? Normal communications may be disrupted or completely out of service.

Individuals and families should create a communications plan to reach the listed people.

The third part of this series will discuss creating a plan so it is one less stressful thought in an already stressful situation.  The first step is to identify the contacts. Start with those in your house or immediate family that may be away, such as in college or deployed.  Then think of extended family members who may live close or elsewhere. They, too, would need to be contacted if are affected by an emergency or need to know your status if the emergency has happened in your area.

Be sure to have an out-of-town contact. This person may not be affected by the emergency. By contacting this person, you can update on your status and other friends and family can contact that person for your status or to update others on their status.

Organize this information into the communication plan. Prepare a wallet card and make sure all involved have access to the plan. Don’t forget to have alternate names and numbers and update contacts as needed.

If you have a cell phone, program your primary contact as “ICE” (In Case of Emergency).

Emergency personnel will often check ICE listings. Include your communications plan in your family and individual go-kits. Distribute the plan to all involved.

This is something that we teach students in our homeland security and STEP classes. Be prepared. If we are prepared, we can reduce some scared.

Email your questions and comments to Trooperrob53@yahoo.com.