Child Welfare Hurricane and Emergency Preparedness Checklist

During an emergency event, continuous communication with DCFS is critical to ensure the safety and well-being of foster children and youth.  One major role that you play is keeping DCFS notified of your updated contact information and other individuals who can contact you during an emergency. After an emergency event, your role is to notify DCFS about the safety and location of foster children and youth. 

DCFS utilizes a “RAVE” system to communicate information to you via text messages and emails. It is important to follow all directions included in RAVE messages.

DCFS also activates a Foster Caregiver support line when a Tropical Storm or Hurricane Warning is issued in Louisiana. This number is:

1-833-788-1351

This phone number is only operational during emergency events. The purpose of this support line is to provide an avenue for foster caregivers and youth to communicate with the agency about the needs and whereabouts of foster children during the emergency event.

• EVACUATE WHEN ORDERED:  If a mandatory evacuation is issued, it is expected that all youth and caregivers who are caring for foster children comply with that order. 
• LET US KNOW YOU'RE SAFE:  When a tropical event impacts your local area, and you have a child placed in your home, it is important to do two things: 
  • CONTACT your assigned Foster Care worker to let them know that you are safe and where you are located, AND
  • IMMEDIATELY RESPOND to requests for information sent through the RAVE alert system regarding the safety of your family.
• PLAN AHEAD:  Make an Emergency Preparation Plan now, using the Checklist below.
• Call 2-1-1 to find out about additional resources in your community.