Generic emergency preparedness advice often assumes a single healthy adult. Real households are more complicated — and a good plan accounts for kids, elderly family members, people with disabilities, and pets.
Include comfort items (a favorite small toy, snacks they recognize) in your kit to reduce anxiety. Practice your evacuation plan with children so it feels familiar rather than frightening, and make sure at least one emergency contact card is kept in their backpack.
Keep an extra supply of any needed medications, spare batteries for medical devices (hearing aids, mobility scooters), and a written list of medical conditions, medications, and physician contacts. If mobility is limited, plan evacuation routes and transportation in advance rather than during an actual event, and consider registering with your local emergency management office for assistance programs where available.
Keep a carrier, leash, a few days of food and water, and copies of vaccination records — many emergency shelters require proof of vaccination before accepting pets. Microchip and ID tags help reunite you with a pet that gets separated during a chaotic evacuation.
Write down every household member (including pets) with any special needs, medications, or mobility considerations, and keep a copy in your go-bag and with your out-of-town emergency contact.
Every household's needs are different. This guide offers general starting points; for medical or disability-specific planning, consult a qualified professional.