Having a clear and easy-to-find emergency contact list can save important time in a crisis. Today, I’ll share the key information you should have ready to keep you and your family safe. Let’s make sure you’re prepared for whatever might happen.
First, write your emergency contact list in big, easy-to-read letters. Keep it in a place that’s simple to find, like on your fridge or next to your phone. Make a few copies—one for your wallet or bag, one for your nightstand, and one to give to a trusted neighbor or family member.
The most important number to have on your list is 911 for emergencies. Even though this number is easy to remember, it's hard to think clearly in a stressful situation. Right under 911, write the non-emergency number for your local police department for problems that aren’t life-threatening but still need attention.
You should also include the name and phone number of your regular doctor. Add their after-hours number too, in case you need help when the office is closed. If you see any special doctors, like a heart doctor or another specialist, add their contact information as well.
Next on your list should be family members. Pick at least two family members you trust who live close by and can get to you quickly in an emergency. Write their home, cell and work phone numbers. Also, include their relationship to you, like “daughter” or “son,” so it’s clear who they are.
You should also add contact information for at least two trusted neighbors. Neighbors can often help the fastest during an emergency. Choose neighbors who are usually home and willing to help. Write their house number and phone numbers so emergency responders can find them easily if necessary.
Write your local pharmacy’s phone number on the list. If you get medical supplies from any companies, add their numbers too. If you wear a medical alert device, include their phone number and your personal subscriber number.
Add the poison control center’s number (1-800-222-1222). You should also write the phone numbers for your local power, gas, propane and water utility companies. You’ll need these if your power goes out or if you have problems with gas or water.
Add your important personal details to the list too. Write your full name, home address, and any allergies you have. If you have health conditions that emergency workers should know about, like a pacemaker or if you take blood thinners, include those too. This information can help save your life in an emergency.
Check your list every six months to make sure everything is correct. Also update it whenever any information changes, like new phone numbers or doctors. Use a pencil so you can erase and fix things easily. Even better, you can keep the list on your computer so you can update and print new copies when needed.
Make sure your list is neat and easy to read. Leave some space between each item, so it’s easy to read. Use bigger letters to make the list easier to see. If you wear glasses, keep a pair next to your list so you can read clearly when you need to.
Having all this important information ready to use is a smart way to keep yourself safe. It helps make sure you can get help quickly in an emergency. Remember, being prepared is one of the best ways to protect yourself and the people you care about.
Christian M. Hartley is a 40-year Alaska resident with over 25 years of public safety and public service experience. He is the City of Houston Fire Chief and serves on many local and state workgroups, boards and commissions related to safety. He lives in Big Lake with his wife of 20 years and their three teenage sons.
