Be Informed
Most communities may be impacted by several types of hazards during a lifetime. Knowing what to do before, during and after an emergency is a critical part of being prepared and may make all the difference when seconds count.
Use the links on this page to learn about the potential emergencies that can happen where you live and the appropriate ways to respond to them. When you know what to do, you can plan with your household and prepare in advance to be ready. These links also provide information about how protect your household and begin recovery following the initial disaster.
-
Active Shooter
An active shooter is an individual actively engaged in killing or attempting to kill people in a confined and populated area, typically through the use of firearms. Being prepared mentally and physically before an active shooter event can help people take action quickly.
Link to page -
Fires
While many fires are preventable, they cause more than 4,000 deaths and injure more than 20,000 people in the U.S. each year. To protect yourself, it is important to understand the basic characteristics of fire.
Link to page -
Floods
Flooding is the nation’s most common natural disaster. Be prepared for flooding no matter where you live, but particularly if you are in a low-lying area, near water or downstream from a dam. Even a very small stream or dry creek bed can overflow and create flooding.
Link to page -
Hazardous Material Release
Releases of hazardous material can occur from damage caused by natural events like tornadoes, hurricanes, flooding, and fires, or by human error. It is important to know how to shelter properly and take action in the event of a hazardous material spill in your area.
Link to page -
Hurricanes
Hurricanes are severe tropical storms that form in the southern Atlantic Ocean, Caribbean Sea, Gulf of Mexico, and in the eastern Pacific Ocean. Scientists can now predict hurricanes, but people who live in coastal communities should plan what they will do if they are told to evacuate.
Link to page -
Influenza
A pandemic is a global disease outbreak. An influenza pandemic occurs when a new influenza A virus emerges for which there is little or no immunity in the human population. An informed and prepared public can take appropriate actions to decrease their risk during a pandemic.
Link to page -
Thunderstorms & Lightning
In the United States lightning kills 300 people and injures 80 on average, each year. All thunderstorms produce lightning and all have the potential for danger.
Link to page -
Tornadoes
Tornadoes are one of nature’s most violent storms. Planning and practicing specifically how and where you take shelter is a matter of survival. Be prepared to act quickly.
Link to page -
Wildfires
Wildfires often begin unnoticed. They spread quickly, igniting brush, trees, and homes. Reduce your risk by preparing now before wildfire strikes. Meet with your family to decide what to do and where to go if wildfires threaten your area.
Link to page