Printable Planner

Neighborhood Emergency Plan

This planner helps you organize and prepare your neighborhood for any emergency situation.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I start a neighborhood emergency plan?

Begin by gathering a small group of motivated neighbors. Identify key needs and resources: who has medical training, who has generators or tools, which households have elderly or disabled residents who may need extra help, and where the nearest shelters and hospitals are. Map out communication methods, a group text chain, a neighborhood app, or a physical contact list, and assign basic roles.

What are the benefits of a neighborhood emergency plan?

Research consistently shows that connected neighborhoods recover faster from disasters. Neighbors can check on vulnerable residents, share resources, coordinate for help before official responders arrive, and reduce panic through communication. Studies of disaster recovery find that social cohesion, knowing and trusting your neighbors, is one of the strongest predictors of community resilience.

What roles should be assigned in a neighborhood emergency plan?

Consider assigning a coordinator for communications, a resource tracker who knows what equipment and skills are available, a vulnerable-resident liaison who checks on elderly or disabled neighbors, a first aid point person if a trained individual is available, and a runner or messenger if phones are down. Keep roles simple and make sure each role has a backup person.