Get Ready!
Why prepare?
Every year, thousands of people are affected by disasters; the consequences can include injury, death and property damage. After a disaster strikes, relief-agencies and the local government will attempt to assist disrupted communities. However, there could be a delay before help is able to reach an affected area. By preparing ahead of time, you can lessen the fear, anxiety and losses that accompany a disaster.
Are you ready for an emergency?
Emergency Preparedness is being ready for a disaster or emergency; each one of us has to be accountable for our own readiness. If you are just starting to prepare, begin by:
- Learning more about preparedness and what disasters could affect your community, be it natural disasters or terrorism.
- Creating an individual and/or family plan. To view a series of videos about preparing your family, click here.
- Assembling an emergency kit to sustain you and your family for the first few days following a disaster.
- Practicing and maintaining your plan.
In addition to directly affecting individuals and families, disasters have social and economic impacts on a community. Plans need to address those issues, as well as include sections for people with special needs and animals. Keep in mind that:
- If you are a parent or guardian, consider the special considerations necessary for children.
- If you own a business, you should ensure it is prepared to function during and after a disaster.
- If you are responsible for a school, it is your job to have emergency plans in place to protect your staff and students.
- If you have a disability or special need (or know of someone with a special need), you may need to take extra steps to prepare for an emergency. You may also want to consider joining our special needs registry.
- If you own pets, you will need to make plans to care for your pet in an emergency or if you need to evacuate.
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When it comes to emergencies, plan early and you will be thinking clearly. Click the links below to access some great preparedness resources!
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For more emergency preparedness information visit the following links