Pick more than one spot, because the right one depends on how serious things are. One close to home for a fire or a gas smell, a backup nearby, one farther out for when the neighborhood is closed off, and one out of town.
Test each spot with one question. If the emergency that sent you outside also reached the spot, would it still be there and still be safe?
Choosing the spots
- A close spot everyone can reach in under a minute, like a neighbor's mailbox or a tree.
- A backup nearby, since a downed line or a fallen tree can block the first one.
- Places children already know, like a library or a relative's house.
- Places that work for pets and for anyone who uses a wheelchair.
- A spot beside the gas meter, or a park beside a creek, can fail the test.
Make them real
- Write a wait time for each spot, so nobody stands around wondering when to move on.
- Note anything that could block the way, like a creek, an underpass or a busy road.
- Walk to each spot with the kids on an ordinary afternoon. A place feels less scary after you have stood there together.
- Put the spots on a wallet card for everyone who carries one.
Free pages to print
Where we'll meet
A blank single page you can print and fill in by hand.
Family wallet card
Key contacts and meeting spots on a card that fits a wallet.
General information for families, not legal, medical or financial advice. In an emergency, follow local officials and call 911.
Related questions
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