Emergencies can strike at any moment. Are you prepared? Recovering from an emergency often depends on the planning and preparation done today. While each person’s abilities and needs are unique, every individual can take steps to prepare for all kinds of emergencies. By evaluating your own personal needs and making an emergency plan that fits those needs, you and your loved ones can be better prepared. Here you will find tips to prepare for emergencies.
How prepared are you? Let us know by completing our Preparedness Survey. Everyone who completes the survey will be entered into a drawing for a chance to win a lantern or weather alert radio.
Complete the Survey
Complete the online survey or mail the completed surveys by November 9, 2022, to be entered into the drawing. Brand and style of lanterns and radios may vary.
If you are experiencing an emergency, dial 911. If an emergency strikes and you call 9-1-1, please have the information needed for the Dispatchers to send help to you.
Tips to Prepare in an Emergency
Create a Plan
If separated, does your family know how to get in touch? If not, sit down together and discuss before an emergency occurs. Better yet, fill out the family communication plans below and keep a copy in a safe place.
Every second counts in the event of a fire. Plan and practice a fire escape plan to help you get out of your home quickly. Learn practical skills and lessons, like how to use a fire extinguisher in an emergency. Remember the acronym P.A.S.S. It stands for Pull, Aim, Squeeze, Sweep.
Collect and Protect Important Paperwork
Paperwork refers to any important papers that might help you prove medical coverage, ownership, or your identity after an emergency. Collect and protect important paperwork, including an up-to-date list of prescriptions, insurance cards, and medical records, to prepare for an emergency.
Create an Emergency Kit
Create custom go-kits out of rolling luggage, a backpack, a duffle bag, or a pillowcase for every member of your household to prepare for an evacuation.
Don’t forget to pack an emergency kit with extras for your car. It’s no fun being stranded. Emergency kits can make the situation you are in more manageable.
Ensure You Have Enough Food
After an emergency, you may not have access to clean water or electricity. That is why it is important to have at home at least a 3-day food and water supply that meets your and your family’s needs. Find a recommended list of emergency food supplies here:
Ensure You Have a Power Source
Don't get left in the dark! Having other lighting and power sources in your emergency kit can be a lifeline during severe weather. Discover more tips at:
Prevent carbon monoxide (CO) poisoning during a power outage. Install a CO alarm and NEVER run a generator or any gasoline-powered engine inside your home. ALWAYS use generators outside, in a dry area, & at least 20 ft. from your home.
Sign Up for Emergency Alerts
Emergency Alerts could help save your life! Sign up to receive emergency notification in your area.
And you can also subscribe to a variety of general County alerts on our Notify Me page.