Emergency Preparedness

A Guide for Crisis Situations

This guide provides essential information to help you and your family prepare for emergency situations. From natural disasters to infrastructure failures, being prepared can make the difference between safety and danger.

Keep this guide accessible at all times

Basic Preparedness

Every household should maintain supplies for at least 72 hours without external assistance. This includes situations where utilities, transportation, and emergency services may be disrupted.

Critical Timeframe

In major emergencies, professional help may not be available immediately. Self-sufficiency for the first 72 hours is essential for survival.

1

Assess Your Risks

Identify potential hazards in your area: floods, earthquakes, power outages, or extreme weather.

2

Create Emergency Plan

Establish meeting points, communication methods, and evacuation routes with family members.

3

Build Emergency Kit

Assemble supplies for water, food, shelter, and communication for minimum 72 hours.

Emergency Supplies

Essential Supplies Checklist

Water & Food

  • 1 gallon water per person per day (3 days minimum)
  • Non-perishable food (3-day supply)
  • Manual can opener
  • Disposable plates, cups, utensils
  • Portable camp stove with fuel
  • Waterproof storage containers

Power & Light

  • Battery-powered or hand-crank radio
  • Flashlights (multiple)
  • Extra batteries (various sizes)
  • Solar phone chargers
  • Portable power banks
  • Candles and waterproof matches

Shelter & Warmth

  • Emergency blankets (thermal)
  • Sleeping bags or warm bedding
  • Extra clothing layers
  • Rain gear and warm boots
  • Plastic sheeting and duct tape
  • Small tent or tarp

Safety & Health

  • First aid kit (comprehensive)
  • Prescription medications
  • Personal hygiene items
  • Hand sanitizer and soap
  • N95 masks or respirators
  • Emergency whistle

Communication Plan

Primary Communication Methods

During emergencies, phone networks may be overloaded or damaged. Text messages often work when voice calls don't. Social media and emergency apps can provide real-time updates.

Emergency Contacts

Keep physical copies of important phone numbers. Include local emergency services, family members, insurance companies, and utility providers. Store copies in multiple locations.

Information Sources

Monitor official channels: local emergency management, weather services, and government alerts. Avoid spreading unconfirmed information that may cause panic or confusion.

During an Emergency

1

Stay Calm & Assess

Take a moment to understand the situation. Check for immediate dangers and gather information from reliable sources.

2

Follow Official Instructions

Listen to emergency broadcasts and follow evacuation orders or shelter-in-place instructions from authorities.

3

Check on Others

Once you're safe, check on family, neighbors, and community members who may need assistance.

4

Document & Report

Take photos of damage for insurance purposes and report emergencies to appropriate authorities.

Emergency Contact Numbers

911
Police, Fire, Medical Emergency
311
Non-Emergency City Services
211
Community Resources & Information
511
Traffic & Transportation Info