How to Make a Safety Map

The purpose of a safety map is either to assist individuals in navigating a building in order to find the closest exit or to provide directions to a designated meeting place after an emergency has occurred. The first type is usually referred to as evacuation maps, while the latter is the type of safety map a family would use.

Pick a meeting place

• Choose a location far enough from home to be safe in the event that the emergency compromises that location. 


• If there are very young children in the family pick a second location within the neighborhood in the event of an emergency at the home. The child should have a safe place to go where he knows that his family will find him.

Is it really a good meeting place?

• Is everyone in the family capable of getting to that location? Consider transportation; some family members may have to walk.


• Can everyone find that location with the map, if necessary, regardless of where they start from? Could the youngest child find the location on his own?


• If the meeting place is a building, will it still be there in the event of a natural disaster? This is important for areas that experience hurricanes, earthquakes, tornados and similar occurrences.
  
  

If the answer to any of these questions is "no," pick another location and ask the same questions.

Make a detailed map of the meeting place

There are many websites that provide detailed maps and directions. Map out the location of your meeting place with all roads and landmarks clearly visible. A detailed map is important in the event of road closures and construction.

Distribute copies of the safety map

Give laminated, if possible, maps to each family member. Stick a map in every purse, backpack, vehicle and briefcase.

Practice

Do not wait for an emergency to make sure that your map and plan work. Have a drill to make sure everyone can use their map.