Preparedness

Emergencies are not limited to hurricanes or major disasters. They can also include flash flooding, severe storms, or even power outages. It is important to know which hazards are most likely in your area to prepare effectively.

Ask yourself:

• Do you reside in a floodplain, near a dam, or close to a body of water?
• Do you reside near a manufacturing or chemical plant?

Discover more at Ready.gov Alerts.

Follow these steps to develop your preparedness plan.

Step 1: Talk with Your Household

• How will I receive emergency alerts and warnings?
• What is my shelter plan?
• What is my evacuation route?
• What is the communication plan for my family/household?
• Should I update my emergency preparedness kit?

Step 2: Consider Specific Needs

• Children and seniors
• Medical requirements (prescriptions and equipment)
• Disabilities or functional needs (devices, mobility equipment)
• Pets and service animals
• Dietary requirements

Step 3: Create a Family Emergency Plan

• Document your plan and discuss it with your household.
• Identify meeting locations both inside and outside your neighborhood.
• Keep emergency contacts readily available. Be aware of how you will communicate if cell service or internet fails.

Step 4: Practice Your Plan

• Conduct drills at home to ensure everyone understands their roles.
• Allow children to practice contacting emergency numbers.
• Test your escape routes and revise the plan if necessary.

Resources:

Emergency Alerts
Sheltering Guidance
Evacuation Information
Family Communication Plan Template

Having food, water, and medicine can help keep you safe until help arrives. Prepare a Go-Bag with essentials so you’re ready to leave quickly if necessary.

Maintain your kit:

• Store canned food in a cool, dry place.
• Keep boxed food in sealed containers.
• Regularly replace expired items.
• Review your kit annually and adjust it as your family's needs change.

Prepare kits for your home, workplace, and vehicles.

For a complete supply checklist, please visit Ready.gov/kit.

Emergency responders may not always be able to reach you right away. Taking action yourself could save lives.

Ways to get involved:

• Join Cumberland County Community Emergency Response Team (CERT): Learn fire safety, light search and rescue, and disaster medical skills.
• Take FEMA Free Online Training: Emergency Management Institute.
• Learn CPR/First Aid: American Red Cross courses.