Emergency planning for military families: A guide for creating contingency plans for deployments

By Team Mighty

Posted on Sep 26, 2024 4:39 PM PDT

Reviewed By Tessa Robinson

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DULAC, LOUISIANA - SEPTEMBER 11: Floodwater fills a neighborhood as Hurricane Francine moves in on September 11, 2024 in Dulac, Louisiana. Hurricane Francine maintains its Category 1 classification and is projected to make landfall along the Louisiana coast later this afternoon. Weather analysts are predicting 90mph winds near the eye and a strong storm surge along the coast. (Photo by Brandon Bell/Getty Images)
DULAC, LOUISIANA - SEPTEMBER 11: Floodwater fills a neighborhood as Hurricane Francine moves in on September 11, 2024 in Dulac, Louisiana. Hurricane Francine maintains its Category 1 classification and is projected to make landfall along the Louisiana coast later this afternoon. Weather analysts are predicting 90mph winds near the eye and a strong storm surge along the coast. (Photo by Brandon Bell/Getty Images) Brandon Bell

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When disaster looms on the horizon—whether it’s a hurricane like Helene, a sudden deployment, or a medical emergency—military families must be equipped with a well-thought-out contingency plan. Living with the unpredictability of military life requires planning ahead, and having an emergency plan in place can reduce chaos and stress, helping you and your family respond efficiently.

Here’s a comprehensive guide for military families on how to prepare for evacuations, natural disasters, and medical emergencies.

Understand the unique challenges faced by military families

Military families often face additional complications when preparing for emergencies. Deployments can leave one spouse managing a household alone, and frequent relocations mean establishing emergency protocols in new and unfamiliar locations. Knowing the specifics of your current duty station, such as weather risks and local medical facilities, is crucial.

For example, living near the coast may increase your risk of hurricanes, while families stationed overseas need to understand the local infrastructure and evacuation protocols. The first step in creating an emergency plan is recognizing the unique challenges your military family might face.

Build a family communication plan

In any emergency situation, communication is key. A Family Communication Plan is an essential component of your emergency strategy. This plan ensures that all family members know how to contact each other and what to do if separated.

What to include

Emergency Contacts

Make a list of phone numbers, including family members, local emergency services, the nearest military installation, and a designated out-of-town contact who can relay information.

Communication Strategy

In case phone lines are down, agree on alternative communication methods such as text messages, emails, or social media platforms.

Meeting Points

Establish a primary and secondary meeting location if you have to evacuate or become separated.

Pro Tip: Military installations often have emergency services or disaster response teams. Keep those numbers handy and make sure everyone knows who to contact on base for help.

Create an evacuation plan

When Hurricane Helene or any other natural disaster approaches, having a clear and executable evacuation plan is essential for military families. If your spouse is deployed, you may have to manage this process on your own, so it’s even more important to prepare early.

Steps for a solid evacuation plan

Know Your Evacuation Routes

Identify multiple routes out of your area and write them down. GPS services may fail during a disaster, so having a paper map is a good backup.

Military Resources

Some military installations provide evacuation assistance for families, including safe locations to shelter. Contact your installation to see if evacuation plans are in place for service members and their dependents.

Designate a Safe Haven

Pick a location outside of the evacuation zone where your family can seek refuge. Whether it’s staying with relatives or at a military-friendly shelter, confirm availability in advance.

Pets and Special Needs

Make arrangements for pets, elderly family members, or individuals with special needs. Ensure you have transportation, food, and medical supplies for everyone in your care.

Pro Tip: If your family lives near a hurricane-prone area, practice your evacuation plan annually. Get the kids involved so they understand what to do and how to stay safe.

Prepare an emergency kit

Every military household should have a go-bag and an emergency supply kit ready in case of a sudden evacuation or emergency. An emergency kit should be portable and include essential items that will keep your family safe and comfortable for at least 72 hours.

Items to Include in Your Emergency Kit

Water

One gallon of water per person per day for at least three days.

Non-Perishable Food

Enough to last each family member three days. Don’t forget snacks, formula, or pet food if necessary.

First Aid Kit

Include any prescription medications, extra glasses, or contact lenses.

Important Documents

Keep copies of IDs, insurance policies, social security cards, and medical records in a waterproof bag. Ensure you have copies of your military ID and any deployment orders.

Cash

ATMs and card readers may not work during power outages.

Flashlight and Batteries

Extra batteries for essential devices, including portable chargers for phones.

Hygiene Items

Wet wipes, hand sanitizer, and other essential hygiene supplies.

Blankets and Warm Clothing 

If you’re in a cold-weather area, pack warm blankets, socks, and gloves.

Pro Tip: Make sure your emergency kit includes a few comfort items for children, like a favorite toy, stuffed animal, or book. These can help ease anxiety during an emergency.

Plan for medical emergencies

In addition to natural disasters, medical emergencies can happen at any time. Having a contingency plan for sudden medical issues ensures your family receives the care they need when time is critical.

Steps for a medical emergency plan

Know your nearest facilities

Identify the nearest hospital, urgent care, and military medical facilities. Keep a list of their addresses and phone numbers in your emergency kit.

Emergency contacts for deployed spouses

Ensure that your spouse has a detailed list of your children’s medical information and how to reach you in case of an emergency. If your spouse is deployed, include the point of contact for their command.

Access to medical records

Ensure you have digital or physical copies of medical records, prescriptions, and vaccination histories. Military families can access medical records through the TRICARE Patient Portal.

Power of attorney

If your spouse is deployed, ensure you have a **medical power of attorney** for yourself and your children, authorizing you to make decisions on their behalf in a medical emergency.

Pro Tip: For families with special medical needs, ensure you have extra medication, medical equipment, and back-up power sources in case of outages.

Stay informed

Being aware of impending threats is crucial to any emergency plan. Stay up-to-date on weather conditions, deployment schedules, and community advisories. Many military installations use AtHoc, an emergency notification system that sends alerts to service members and their families.

How to stay informed

Download apps

FEMA, American Red Cross, and NOAA weather apps are essential for real-time information.

Sign up for alerts

Subscribe to local government, military base, or weather alert services.

Monitor social media

Many official military organizations post updates on social media during emergencies.

Emergencies are unpredictable, but having a well-prepared contingency plan makes a world of difference. By creating a family communication plan, understanding evacuation routes, preparing an emergency kit, and staying informed, military families can navigate even the toughest situations with confidence. Whether you’re preparing for a deployment or bracing for Hurricane Helene, taking proactive steps today will protect your family tomorrow.