Field guide: immediate decisions

In the first minutes, use a simple frame: pause, protect, account, communicate, reassess. The order can change for an immediate life threat, but checking facts before acting remains useful.

Name the hazard

Ask what can harm people now: fire, smoke, gas, electricity, unstable structure, traffic, floodwater, violence, temperature, or a medical emergency. Move away from immediate danger and call for help. Do not begin by collecting property.

Account for people

Identify who is present, missing, or needs support. Prioritize children, older adults, people with disabilities, people dependent on medication or equipment, and pets/service animals. Do not search a known hazard alone; give responders accurate last-known information.

Choose stay, leave, or wait

Follow official orders. Without one, compare the present location with the route and destination. Record why you chose and when, then revisit it as conditions change.

Set small priorities

Establish shelter, safe water, medication, and a way to receive updates. Assign one person to watch updates and another to record hazards and supplies. Rest, food, and water are decision tools: fatigue creates mistakes.

Scope: A civilian decision aid, not a command system. Local instructions and qualified responders take priority.