Earthquake Preparedness 102 Family Meeting Place

What is an emergency family meeting place?  It is a previously agreed upon location outside the house where all family members meet in case of an emergency.

The best place would be away from fire hydrants that is easily accessible.  The mail box is a popular choice as long as it is on the same side of the street as the house.  Teach everyone to stay at the meeting place until the parents say "SAFE".  Teach everyone the steps involved in calling 911.

In an emergency all family members should be taught and drilled to go immediately to the meeting place so they every one can be accounted for. Talk about the need for a meeting place with the family.  Everyone agree upon a location.  Practice going there over and over again.  One family I know gathers at the meeting place before leaving in the car to practice.  They made up a silly song singing out each family member's name.  The kids enjoy the activity while practicing and imprinting what to do in an emergency.  Knowing what to do in an emergency can mean the difference between life and death or avoiding valuable time looking for family members.