Home FIRST Plan

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1. Preparation & Planning

• Risk Assessment: Identify potential risks (natural disasters, power outages, etc.).

• Emergency Kits: Encourage families to prepare emergency kits with essentials (food, water, first aid, flashlights).

• Evacuation Plans: Develop clear evacuation routes and meeting points.

• Communication Channels: Establish communication methods (phone trees, social media groups, walkie-talkies).

• Neighborhood Safety Map: Create a map showing safe zones, shelters, and resources within the neighborhood.

• Training & Drills: Organize regular drills and training sessions on first aid, CPR, and emergency response.

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2. Coordination Among Neighbors

• Community Leaders: Designate neighborhood leaders to coordinate efforts.

• Resource Sharing: Identify and share resources (generators, medical supplies, food).

• Skill Inventory: List skills within the community (medical professionals, builders) to be utilized in emergencies.

• Vulnerable Population Support: Create a list of individuals who may need extra assistance (elderly, disabled) and assign support teams.

• Neighborhood Watch: Establish a neighborhood watch to monitor safety and security.

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3. Communication During a Catastrophic Event

• Emergency Alerts: Set up systems to receive and disseminate alerts (radio, apps, text messages).

• Designated Communicators: Assign specific individuals to relay information between households.

• Regular Updates: Ensure consistent updates to all members about the situation and next steps.

• Backup Communication: Have alternative communication methods in case of power or network failures.

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4. Emergency Response

• First Response Team: Create a team responsible for immediate actions (medical assistance, evacuation coordination).

• Shelter-in-Place Protocols: Establish procedures for staying safe at home if evacuation is not possible.

• Evacuation Execution: Implement the pre-planned evacuation routes and protocols.

• Resource Distribution: Efficiently distribute resources (food, water, medicine) based on needs.

• Emergency Shelter Setup: Coordinate the establishment of temporary shelters if necessary.

 

5. Post-Event Recovery & Support

• Damage Assessment: Organize teams to assess damage and prioritize repairs.

• Emotional & Psychological Support: Provide counseling and support for trauma recovery.

• Resource Replenishment: Rebuild community supplies and emergency kits.

• Community Debriefing: Hold meetings to discuss what worked and what needs improvement.

• Reintegration Plans: Develop strategies for returning to normalcy, including repairing homes and infrastructure.

• Review & Update Plans: Regularly review and update the emergency plan based on lessons learned.