Every year as the children go back to school, parents fill out a new emergency contact sheet for them to take back to their teacher. Generally, this includes their insurance information as well as the names and numbers of trusted family or friends who could help your children in an emergency.

No matter how many times this information has been given in the past, it is wise to update it every year. Most schools know the value of being prepared for the unexpected. Having important names and phone numbers on hand may save valuable time and energy during a disaster, especially in a stressful situation when it is difficult to think clearly.
 

Many families keep a list like this taped to their kitchen cupboard. It has work numbers, family members, neighbors, and emergency numbers like the hospital and the family doctor. A list like this is a great resource for parents, babysitters, and even for young children who know how to use a phone. Of course, it can only be useful if everyone knows about the list and knows where to find it.
 

An emergency phone list placed by a phone will help ensure a quicker response, which may even save a life. Please take a moment to brainstorm for possible people and agencies that you would want to communicate with in the event of an emergency. Make your children aware of these numbers and regularly review possible situations where you would need to use them.
 

A good place to start when deciding on phone numbers to include is your local phone book. It often lists the numbers for police and fire stations, as well as other agencies like poison control or the American Red Cross in your area.
 

Recommended Emergency Contact Numbers:

• Any emergency--911
• Fire station
• Police station
• Family doctor
• Poison control center
• Animal control
• School numbers
• Local friends or relatives
• Out-of-state friends
• Work numbers
• Neighbors
• American Red Cross
• Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA)