True or False: Making an emergency response plan for your home is not worth the time because resources are primarily for officials, but planning ahead is still beneficial.

• A. False
• B. True
• C. Not sure
• D. Not applicable

Answer: (A)

Being prepared at home matters because individuals are the first line of safety when a disaster occurs. The idea that it isn’t worth the time because resources go to officials is not accurate. Planning ahead helps you act quickly, communicate clearly, and protect your family even before responders arrive.

A simple home plan should include clear escape routes and a designated meeting point, a way to contact family if phones are down, and steps to take to keep everyone safe (including pets) and to shut off utilities if it’s safe to do so. Having an emergency kit with water, nonperishable food, meds, flashlight, batteries, a battery-powered radio, and copies of important documents makes a big difference when time is critical. Practicing the plan so everyone knows what to do reduces panic and confusion.

Even though emergency resources are coordinated by authorities, your household plan complements the response and can lessen the burden on responders while increasing your family’s safety.