Emergency Preparedness

Whether you're living in California, Oklahoma, Virginia, or Alaska, every posting comes with different natural hazards. A few minutes of preparation today can make a significant difference during an emergency.

KNOW YOUR RISKS

Understand the risks you and your family may face while OUTCAN. Know how and when to take action before, during, and after different hazards and familiarize yourself with your Chain of Commands action plan!

MAKE A PLAN

Create a communications plan
Keep important phone numbers written down (not just saved on your phone)
- Template: Family Communications Plan
Prepare a "Go-Bag"
Items will vary household to household, but consider the following:
- Critical identification (passports, driver's licences, military ID cards)
- Important documents (insurance information, medical records, emergency contacts)
- Prescription medications and a basic first aid kit
- Bottled water (or a water purifier, such as a LifeStraw)
- Non-perishable food (enough for at least 72 hours, such as protein or granola bars)
- Mobile phone chargers and portable battery packs
- Cash (small bills where possible)
- A change of clothing and sturdy footwear
- Toiletries and personal hygiene items
- A whistle and multi-tool
- Essential items for children or pets, as applicable
  
  This is by no means an exhaustive list but a starting point. The contents of your Go Bag should be tailored to your family’s unique needs (pets, children, disabilities, etc.) - visit www.ready.gov/kit to continue building your Go-Bag!
Back-up your data
Make sure important files are safeguarded and all in the same place for easy portability (think passport, visa, birth certificate, rental agreement, medical information, household inventory, insurance policies, etc.)
- Check out FEMA's list of Critical Documents & Valuables

TAKE ACTION

Put your plan into action. Be ready and able to face disasters, no matter where you are and when they occur. It is important to get the insurance you need and understand your coverage options. Moreover, make an extra copy of your household inventory and protect your property by considering how to minimize damage.

Complete or update your CFMWS US Welcome Form
Sign up for local emergency alerts and warnings
Review your insurance coverage to ensure it reflects the hazards common in your area
Check and refresh your Go-Bag every six months
Kickstart your emergency fund with SISIP Financial

Support Programs

Support Our Troops: Grants, loans, and programs
Family Care Assistance Program (FCAP): Short-term financial support to help families access care for their dependants
Family Mental Health: Connect with our family counsellor, CAF chaplains, helplines, and more.

Emergency Evacuation and Loss

If a CAF member or their family is instructed to evacuate, or if their home becomes uninhabitable, they may be eligible for benefits under Foreign Service Directive 64 (FSD 64). This directive outlines which evacuation costs may be covered, including travel, meals, accommodations, and the moving of household effects. Important: Pre-approval is required before any expenses can be reimbursed. Keep all receipts and contact your designated support unit: CANELEMNORAD or CDLS(W).

Key Takeaways:

Contact CANELEMNORAD or CDLS(W)
Obtain approval before spending money
Keep every receipt
Review FSD 64 eligibility

Preparedness Apps

First Aid: American Red Cross (Android | iOS)
Step-by-step first aid guidance, videos, emergency tips, and quick access to nearby hospitals.
FEMA: Disaster Alert App (Android | iOS)
Emergency alerts, preparedness information, safety tips, and resources for a wide range of disasters.