TIGHTEN-UP Alert Response Checklist
When you receive a TIGHTEN-UP alert (2+ Red Indicators), complete these actions within 48 hours:
⏰ FIRST 6 HOURS - Fuel & Cash
- Fill all vehicle gas tanks to full
- Fill approved gas containers if available
- Withdraw $500-1000 cash (prefer small bills)
- Ensure each family member has some cash
⏰ FIRST 12 HOURS - Power & Communications
- Charge all cell phones & tablets to 100%
- Charge all power banks & batteries
- Charge flashlights & emergency radios
- Charge laptops and other devices
- Test emergency radio (NOAA weather channel)
- Verify all family phone numbers work
- Send test message to out-of-state contact
⏰ FIRST 24 HOURS - Family Coordination
- Hold family meeting to review this checklist
- Confirm primary meeting location: _________________
- Confirm secondary meeting location: _______________
- Confirm out-of-state contact: ___________________
- Practice communication plan with all members
- Assign specific tasks to each family member
⏰ 24-48 HOURS - Supplies & Readiness
- Check water supply: 1 gallon per person per day (3 days)
- Check food: Non-perishable for 3 days
- Check medications: 7-day supply minimum
- Verify first aid kit is complete
- Test all flashlights & replace batteries
- Locate important documents
- Know how to shut off: water, gas, electricity
- Clear paths to all exits
- Test smoke/CO detectors
Family Contact Information
Out-of-State Contact:
Name: _________________________________
Phone: ________________________________
Email: ________________________________
Local Meeting Points:
Primary: ______________________________
Address: ______________________________
Secondary: ____________________________
Address: ______________________________
Communication If Networks Are Down
- Text before calling - Texts often work when calls don't
- Use social media - May work on WiFi when cellular doesn't
- Try email - Often works when other services are down
- Emergency radio - NOAA weather for official information
Important Reminders
- Stay calm and avoid panic - preparation reduces anxiety
- Monitor local news but avoid social media rumors
- This is precautionary - most alerts resolve without incident
- Focus on basic preparedness, not worst-case scenarios
- Continue normal activities while completing preparations
💡 Pro Tips:
- Keep this checklist printed and posted somewhere visible
- Review with family quarterly
- Update contact information regularly
- Practice makes perfect - do a drill twice a year