You're Safe

  • Updated on Oct 13, 2024
  • Published on Jun 19, 2024
  • 3 minute(s) read

Steps to Take Once You're Safe

After an emergency evacuation, ensuring the safety and well-being of you and your family is the immediate priority. Once you are safe, the next steps involve finding disaster relief, securing temporary housing, accessing necessary medications, and contacting your insurance company.

This chapter provides a comprehensive guide on what to do after an emergency evacuation.

1. Ensure Safety and Account for Everyone

a. Check-In:

  • Family and Pets: Ensure all family members and pets are safe and accounted for.

  • Designated Contacts: Inform your designated out-of-town contact person of your status and location.

b. First Aid:

  • Injuries: Address any injuries or medical needs immediately. Use your first-aid kit for minor injuries and seek professional medical help if needed.

2. Find Temporary Housing

a. Emergency Shelters:

  • Local Shelters: Contact local emergency management offices or organizations like the Red Cross to find nearby emergency shelters.

  • Pet-Friendly Shelters: Ensure the shelter can accommodate your pets, or find alternative pet boarding facilities.

b. Hotels and Motels:

  • Temporary Lodging: Look for hotels or motels in the area. Many establishments may offer discounted rates for evacuees.

  • Online Resources: Use online resources or apps to find available accommodations quickly.

c. Friends and Family:

  • Stay with Relatives: Reach out to friends or family members who can provide temporary housing until it's safe to return home.

3. Seek Disaster Relief Assistance

a. Government Assistance:

  • FEMA: Register with the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) for disaster relief assistance. You can apply online, by phone, or through their mobile app.

  • State and Local Programs: Check for additional state and local government assistance programs.

b. Nonprofit Organizations:

  • Red Cross: Contact the Red Cross for emergency assistance, including shelter, food, and supplies.

  • Local Charities: Reach out to local charities and nonprofit organizations for additional support and resources.

c. Financial Assistance:

  • Grants and Loans: Apply for disaster relief grants and low-interest loans from government agencies to help cover temporary housing and recovery expenses.

4. Access Necessary Medications

a. Contact Healthcare Providers:

  • Prescription Refills: Contact your healthcare provider or pharmacy to refill any essential medications.

  • Medical Records: Provide necessary medical records or prescription information if needed.

b. Local Pharmacies:

  • Emergency Refills: Many pharmacies can provide emergency prescription refills, especially during a declared disaster.

  • Medication Assistance Programs: Look for programs that offer free or discounted medications for disaster survivors.

5. Contact Your Insurance Company

a. Report the Evacuation:

  • Insurance Claim: Notify your insurance company of the evacuation and any potential damage to your property. Initiate a claim as soon as possible.

  • Documentation: Provide detailed documentation, including photographs and a list of damaged or lost items.

b. Temporary Housing Coverage:

  • Policy Benefits: Inquire about coverage for temporary housing and living expenses. Many homeowner’s or renter’s insurance policies include Loss of Use / Additional Living Expenses (ALE) coverage.

c. Follow-Up:

  • Regular Updates: Maintain regular communication with your insurance adjuster and provide any additional information or documentation requested.

A Preview of What is Coming Next

a. Long Term Living:

  • Rental: If your house will not be usable for the foreseeable future, finding a medium to long term rental will become a top priority, especially if your region has been devastated and options are in short supply.

b. Communications:

  • Community: Connecting with your neighbors and town officials will be crucial to your upcoming recovery process.

  • Services: Contacting work, medical services, schools, utilities and more will be coming soon.

c. Cleanup and Repairs:

  • Initial Cleanup: Start with basic cleanup to prevent further damage. Remove debris and salvage any undamaged items.

  • Professional Repairs: Contact contractors for major repairs. Ensure they are licensed and insured.

d. Financial Planning:

  • Budgeting: Create a budget for recovery expenses, including repairs, temporary housing, and other needs.

  • Assistance Programs: Utilize disaster relief funds, insurance payouts, and other financial assistance programs to cover costs.

Learn More

After an emergency evacuation, taking proactive steps can significantly aid in the recovery process. The next few articles go a bit deeper, providing tips and things to think about. Let’s get to it…