Identify a contact such as a friend or relative who lives out-of-state for household members to notify they are safe.
Be sure every member of your family knows the phone number and has a cell phone, coins or a prepaid phone card to call the emergency contact.
Teach family members how to use text messaging. Text messages can often get around network disruptions when a phone call might not be able to get through.
It's important to have a grab and go bag ready for each member of the family in case you have to evacuate your home quickly and with little notice. It's also important to have an emergency supply of items your family might need in the event you could not leave your home for several days.