Family Emergency Preparedness Checklist

Why Prepare Now

ICE enforcement can happen without warning. By preparing now, you protect your children, your assets, and your family's future. Complete this checklist before an emergency occurs.

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Critical Documents Checklist

Gather These Documents

• [ ] Birth certificates for ALL family members (originals + copies)
• [ ] Passports (store securely - do NOT carry daily)
• [ ] Marriage certificate
• [ ] Children's school records
• [ ] Medical records and vaccination records
• [ ] Immigration documents (visas, work permits, DACA, etc.)
• [ ] A-Number and receipt numbers
• [ ] Property deeds or lease agreements
• [ ] Vehicle titles and registration
• [ ] Bank account information
• [ ] Insurance policies (health, auto, life)
• [ ] Tax returns (last 3 years)

Document Storage

• [ ] Store originals in a secure location (safe, lockbox)
• [ ] Make copies of all documents
• [ ] Give copies to a trusted contact outside your home
• [ ] Take photos and store digitally (encrypted)
• [ ] Trusted contact knows where originals are stored

Trusted Document Contact:

Name: _________________________________

Phone: ________________________________

Relationship: __________________________

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Child Care & Guardianship

CRITICAL: Power of Attorney is NOT Enough

A standard Power of Attorney cannot transfer custody of your children in most states. You need state-specific guardianship documents.

California

• [ ] Complete Caregiver's Authorization Affidavit (CAA)
• [ ] Consider Joint Guardianship nomination (2026 law)
• [ ] File with trusted adult

Illinois

• [ ] Complete Short-Term Guardianship form
• [ ] Valid for up to 1 year
• [ ] Takes effect immediately upon triggering event

New York

• [ ] Complete Standby Guardianship form
• [ ] Valid for 60 days
• [ ] Guardian must petition court within 60 days for long-term

Other States

• [ ] Research your state's specific guardianship requirements
• [ ] Consult with an immigration attorney
• [ ] Complete appropriate forms

Designated Guardian:

Name: _________________________________

Phone: ________________________________

Address: ______________________________

Relationship: __________________________

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School & Childcare Preparation

• [ ] Update emergency contacts at school
• [ ] Add non-parent trusted adults to pickup list
• [ ] Ensure designated guardian is authorized
• [ ] Inform school of your emergency plan (optional)
• [ ] Children know guardian's phone number
• [ ] Children know what to do if parent doesn't pick them up

School Contact:

School: _______________________________

Phone: ________________________________

Emergency Contact on File: _____________

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Financial Preparation

Power of Attorney

• [ ] Execute Financial Power of Attorney
• [ ] Designate trusted person to manage:
  • [ ] Bank accounts
  • [ ] Pay rent/mortgage
  • [ ] Manage bills
  • [ ] Access safe deposit box
  • [ ] Sell property if needed

Banking

• [ ] Add trusted person to bank account (joint or POA)
• [ ] Know account numbers and PINs
• [ ] Have some cash accessible at home
• [ ] Trusted contact can access accounts

Financial POA Contact:

Name: _________________________________

Phone: ________________________________

Bank: _________________________________

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Communication Plan

Emergency Contacts

Role	Name	Phone
Immigration Attorney	_____________	_____________
Family Contact (local)	_____________	_____________
Family Contact (out of state)	_____________	_____________
Designated Guardian	_____________	_____________
Trusted Neighbor	_____________	_____________
Rapid Response Hotline	_____________	_____________
Consulate (if needed)	_____________	_____________

Memorization

• [ ] All adults memorize attorney's phone number
• [ ] All adults memorize emergency family contact
• [ ] Older children memorize guardian's phone number
• [ ] Everyone knows what to say: "I want to remain silent. I want an attorney."

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Home Preparation

• [ ] Install peephole in front door
• [ ] Install doorbell camera (optional)
• [ ] Install deadbolt lock
• [ ] Post Door Card near front door
• [ ] All adults know NOT to open door without verifying
• [ ] Practice the door protocol with family

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Know Your Rights Materials

• [ ] Door Card printed and posted
• [ ] Pocket Cards for all adults (in wallets)
• [ ] Pocket Cards for older children (in backpacks)
• [ ] Review materials with entire family
• [ ] Practice scenarios

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Talk to Your Children

Age-appropriate conversations should cover:

• [ ] Who the designated guardian is
• [ ] Guardian's phone number (memorized)
• [ ] What to do if parent doesn't pick them up
• [ ] Never open the door to strangers
• [ ] It's okay to be scared, but stay calm
• [ ] Reassure them: "We have a plan"

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Legal Preparation

• [ ] Consult with immigration attorney
• [ ] Know your current case status
• [ ] Have attorney's contact readily available
• [ ] Understand your rights
• [ ] Know if you have any deportation orders
• [ ] Know your A-Number

Immigration Attorney:

Name: _________________________________

Firm: _________________________________

Phone: ________________________________

Email: ________________________________

A-Number: _____________________________

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If Detained: Instructions for Family

Write down instructions for your family if you are detained:

1. Call attorney immediately: _______________________

2. Call family member: _______________________

3. Children go to: _______________________

4. Do NOT try to pay bond without attorney advice

5. Location of important documents: _______________________

6. Bank information: _______________________

7. Special instructions: _______________________

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Completion Checklist

• [ ] All documents gathered and secured
• [ ] Copies given to trusted contact
• [ ] Guardianship paperwork completed
• [ ] School contacts updated
• [ ] Financial POA executed
• [ ] Emergency numbers memorized
• [ ] Home prepared (door card, peephole)
• [ ] KYR cards distributed
• [ ] Family has practiced protocol
• [ ] Children understand the plan
• [ ] Attorney consulted

Date Completed: ___________________

Review Date (every 6 months): ___________________

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Related Resources

• Home Raids Guide
• Door Card
• Pocket Card
• Family of Detainee Guide
• Find Legal Aid