People, all people, should make a family disaster plan. At the very least, have an out of area primary contact. Phone service within an area may be down, but cell phone may allow you to reach some one out of state. If you all agree on that contact person, and a back up, it is easier for all to know who is safe.
While i find the safety kit sales over the top. The American Red Cross has good information
http://www.redcross.org/prepare/loca...me-family/plan