7 STEPS TO CREATING AN
EMERGENCY ACTION PLAN
A carefully crafted emergency action plan is key to effectively responding to a situation. Having a plan
can reduce anxiety and fear, lessen the impact, and increase self-sufficiency. Follow these steps to create
an effective emergency action plan for your community.
STEP ONE: IDENTIFY NEEDS
Every community is unique, and your emergency action plan should reflect that. Discussing the following
questions with your board will determine the next steps:
• Where is your community located? (i.e., city, suburb, desert, mountains, beach, farmland, etc.)
• What type of association is it? (i.e., high-rise, condominium, single-family, planned community, etc.)
• What kind of buildings, landscaping, amenities, and mechanical equipment does your plan need to
consider?
• What are the demographics of your community in terms of age, families, and economic status?
• How will the board communicate the plan to association members and other partners?
STEP TWO: FORM A COMMITTEE
Establish a committee to help create your emergency action plan. Look for members with real-world
experience in disaster prep, but also consider any resident willing to serve. Duties for the committee
should include making emergency plans, assessing current needs, performing community outreach, and
in some cases, assisting with safety drills.
