Homeland Security Checklist

Prepare a Disaster Kit

In the kit include:

  • Medications
  • Food
  • Water
  • Cash
  • Flashlights
  • Batteries
  • Radio

Discuss Types of Disasters

Discuss the types of disasters and terrorism emergencies with your family. Plan what to do for each case.

Call a Friend

Choose a family member or a friend out-of-state or from a distant community that can be called if local phones are not working. Every family member should carry this number and call to "check in".

Carry and Post Emergency Phone Numbers

Each family member should carry emergency numbers, i.e., parents work, close relatives, doctor's office, etc.

Turn off Utilities

Show each family member how to shut off the utilities.

Our ultimate goal is a time when security measures are a comfortable, convenient part of our routine; a time when people go about their daily lives mindful of risks but not encumbered by fear; unwavering in our resolve and full participants in our own protection.

Secretary Michael Chertoff
U.S. Department of Homeland Security

Create an Emergency Plan

Pick two places your family can meet during an emergency. Pick one outside of your home for sudden emergencies and the other outside of your neighborhood in case you can't return home.