Disaster Preparedness

Natural or man-made disasters can happen suddenly and at any time. Being prepared with with a plan and emergency supplies can help you take care of yourself and your family during the days immediately following a major disaster. 

This page offers some basic planning information to get you started. We recommend however, visiting the Department of Homeland Security’s Ready.gov site for detailed information and printable worksheets to help you with your planning.

Make a Plan

• You may not be together with your family when a disaster happens. Know how you’ll contact each other and reconnect if you’re separated. Establish a family meeting place that’s familiar and easy to find.
• How will you receive emergency alerts and warnings?
• What is your shelter or evacuation plan (including evacuation routes)?
• Consider the specific needs of your household including medical or dietary needs, disabilities, pets or service animals, or other needs you or your family may have.   
• Once you have a plan, be sure that everyone knows it and practices it often.

Build a Supplies Kit 

Your emergency supplies should include enough food, water and other supplies to last for several days. Consider your own needs and situation, however a basic emergency supply kit could include the following items:

• Water (one gallon per person per day for several days, for drinking and sanitation)
• Food (at least a several-day supply of non-perishable food)
• Manual can opener (for food)
• Battery-powered or hand crank radio and a NOAA Weather Radio with tone alert
• Flashlight
• First aid kit
• Extra batteries
• Cell phone with chargers and a backup battery
• Dust mask (to help filter contaminated air)
• Plastic sheeting, scissors and duct tape (to shelter in place)
• Soap, hand sanitizer, toilet tissue, moist towelettes, garbage bags and plastic ties (for personal sanitation)
• Mess kits, paper cups, plates, paper towels, plastic utensils, and disinfecting wipes to disinfect surfaces
• Important documents such as copies of insurance policies, identification and bank account records saved electronically or in a waterproof, portable container
• Individual specific needs
  • Prescription medications and eyeglasses
  • Baby care items such as formula, bottles, diapers, wipes, etc. 
  • Pet food and extra water for your pet