I called people a when I was certain I was in labour. Partially so they had time to organize child care and also because I then could call them back and say, "actually it has kicked up a gear, can you come now?" And they would be ready. One got a flat tire and was way later than she had anticipated. So in the end it turned out well that I had called early, cos she was an hr away, and she decided she would come closer and just wait in a cafe and do some work on her computer.

I got all my supplies organized into a basket for the birth. Then I knew that everything was ready for whomever had to set up. Because we set up in the bedroom, I had black plastic to protect the carpet and then a blanket to go over and the birth pool. I didn't have any sorted out until I went into labour. Hubby I called home from work when I realized I was in labour and he set that up for me. Hope that helps.