Preparedness Guides

Get Prepared


  • Being prepared is the key to survival in any disaster.
  • Create a plan as a family and work together to assemble a disaster kit.
  • Make sure that each family member knows what to do in the event of a disaster.
  • Knowledge replaces fear and pre-planning controls chaos.

Emergency Preparedness Guides for Business


NIOSH Business Emergency Management Planning

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Guides Published by NOAA & the American Red Cross

  1. Heat Waves and Droughts Preparedness Guide (PDF)
  2. NOAA Hurricane Preparedness Guide (PDF)
  3. Thunderstorms and Tornados Preparedness Guide (PDF)
  4. Winter Storms Preparedness Guide (PDF)
Hurricaine
Thunderstorms and Tornados
Heat Waves and Droughts
Winter Storm

Basic Family Disaster Kit

By following the lists below you will be able to spread the cost of assembling your kit over a four week period. Make sure your kit contains enough provisions  for each family member for 3 - 4 days. This Disaster Kit is intended for families that will shelter in place at home.

If your family needs to evacuate you will need to modify your kit accordingly.
  1. Week 1
  2. Week 2
  3. Week 3
  4. Week 4

Week 1

  • Containers to hold supplies; plastic totes, backpacks etc.
  • Flashlights, (1 per family member)
  • Toolbox with basic tools, (hammer, screwdriver, utility knife, etc.)
  • Assorted nails
  • Roll of Duct Tape
  • Large tarp(s), (for covering roof if needed)
  • Battery operated radio
  • Spare batteries for flashlights and radio
  • Blanket or sleeping bag and pillow for each family member
  • Towels and washcloths
  • Clothing for each family member, include shoes and rain gear
  • Books, games, toys etc. for entertainment
  • Local road map

Additional Considerations When Assembling Your Supplies:


  • Make sure you have plenty of prescription medications on hand, also have a list of medications, including dosing information, allergies to medications and Medical history printed clearly on paper and sealed in a zip-lock bag. This information should be with the individual it pertains to during a disaster, not packed in a bag that may become separated from them during an evacuation.
  • All important papers, (birth certificates, financial papers etc.), should be sealed in a water proof container that can be easily carried with you in the event of an evacuation.
  • All pets should have ID tags with their name as well as their owners name and contact information.