Gathering critical information, outlining procedures, and identifying emergency communication methods can be done simultaneously using the Critical Information worksheets. 

Communication is essential in emergency response. Part of being able to communicate in an emergency is having the appropriate contact and resource information. Gathering and maintaining this critical information enhances needs assessment and response efforts. Compile and maintain the following critical information, and update it regularly. 

This preparation will help you account for, assess, respond to, and report members' safety and needs in an emergency situation (see Step 3: Outline Assignments and Procedures). 

Create a map to mark locations in your ward or stake boundaries. Consider using maps.lds.org, LDS Tools, or a printed map.

Print a copy each of the map and ward or stake directory to identify member households and missionary residences.

Using the Critical Information—Members with Special Needs worksheet and Critical Information—Equipment, Skills, and Communication Resources, identify and map:

  • Members with special needs (such as wheelchair assistance, oxygen, special medications, and so on).
  • Members with equipment or skills (such as medical or emergency response training) that would be useful in response or clean up efforts.

Using the Critical Information—Services worksheet, generate a list of Church, community and public resources that serve your area and would be helpful in response efforts, such as:

  • Church meetinghouses, facilities, and property
  • Public safety agencies (police, hospitals, and so on.)
  • Community or other organizations that provide emergency services, such as food, shelter, and medical care.

When filling out the Critical Information worksheets, identify deficiencies in the current plan. Use the Actions and Assignments worksheet to follow up with preparation efforts. 

Take Action: 

1. Create a map to mark resource locations in the community. Use the map and ward or stake directory to identify missionary and member residences and their contact information. 

2. List contact information for local Church leaders and welfare operations.

3. Use the Critical Information worksheets to identify ward or stake members with special needs and members who have equipment or special skills that could help in an emergency. 

4. Using the Critical Information worksheets, identify community services and public resources that serve the ward and stake and that are helpful to response efforts. 

5. Identify deficiencies in the current plan and use the Actions and Assignments worksheets to complete the plan.