What should I have on hand?  

Disasters happen anytime and anywhere. And when disaster strikes, you may not have much time to respond. A highway spill or hazardous material could mean evacuation. A winter storm could confine your family at home. An earthquake, flood, tornado or any other disaster could cut water, electricity and telephones -- for days. 

After a disaster, local officials and relief workers will be on the scene, but they cannot reach everyone immediately. You could get help in hours, or it may take days. Would your family be prepared to cope with the emergency until help arrives?

Your family will cope best by preparing for disaster before it strikes. One way to prepare is by assembling a Disaster Supplies Kit. Once disaster hits, you won't have time to shop or search for supplies. But if you've gathered supplies in advance, your family can endure an evacuation or home confinement.

Download these checklists and keep them with you:

• Family Disaster Supplies Kit 
• Checklist for People with Mobility Problems
• Pets

How do I prepare for a disaster? 

Disaster can strike quickly and without warning. It can force you to evacuate your neighborhood or confine you to your home. 

What would you do if basic services -- water, gas, electricity or telephones -- were cut off? Local officials and relief workers will be on the scene after a disaster, but they cannot reach everyone right away.

Families can -- and do -- cope with disaster by preparing in advance and working together as a team. Follow the steps listed in this brochure to create your family's disaster plan. Knowing what to do is your best protection and your responsibility.

Download these plans and keep them with you: 

• Shelter Information
• Family Disaster Plan 
• Family Emergency Plan 
• Community Emergency Plan