Preparedness

Disaster Preparedness articles, information, and forms.

Caring for Animals

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Animals also are affected by disasters. Use the guidelines below to prepare a plan for caring for pets and large animals. Plan for pet disaster needs by: Identifying shelter. Gathering pet supplies. Ensuring your pet has proper ID and up-to-date veterinarian records. Providing a pet carrier and leash. Take the following steps to prepare to … Read more

Insurance and Vital Records

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Obtain property, health, and life insurance if you do not have them. Review existing policies for the amount and extent of coverage to ensure that what you have in place is what is required for you and your family for all possible hazards. Flood Insurance If you live in a flood-prone area, consider purchasing flood … Read more

Utility Shut-off and Safety

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In the event of a disaster, you may be instructed to shut off the utility service at your home. Below is some general guidance for shutting off utility service: Modify the information provided to reflect your shut off requirements as directed by your utility company(ies). Natural Gas Natural gas leaks and explosions are responsible for … Read more

Emergency Planning and Checklists

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Now that you’ve learned about what can happen and how your community is prepared to respond to emergencies, prepare your family by creating a family disaster plan. You can begin this process by gathering family members and reviewing the information you obtained in Section 1.1 (hazards, warning systems, evacuation routes and community and other plans). … Read more

Evacuating Yourself and Your Family

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When community evacuations become necessary, local officials provide information to the public through the media. In some circumstances, other warning methods, such as sirens or telephone calls, also are used. Additionally, there may be circumstances under which you and your family feel threatened or endangered and you need to leave your home, school, or workplace … Read more