Be Prepared for an Emergency

Across the country, thousands each year are affected by large-scale disasters: Wildfires, floods, hurricanes. Disasters can also occur on a smaller scale, caused by everyday events such as power outages, kitchen fires, or burst water mains—anything that has the potential to significantly disrupt the lives of children and families. But there is good news. While most disasters are impossible to predict, you can plan for them.  We encourage our citizens to take steps to prepare for emergencies in their homes, schools, organizations, businesses, and communities.

Preparing can start with four important steps:

• Step 1: Be informed about emergencies that could happen in your area, and identify sources of information in your community that will be helpful before, during and after an emergency. 
• Step 2: Make a family emergency plan.
• Step 3: Build an emergency supply kit for work and home.
• Step 4: Get involved—consider joining a Community Emergency Response Team or CERT Team, taking a class at your local American Red Cross or volunteering for your local medical reserve corps.

What does being prepared for a disaster mean?

For you and your family, it means having an emergency supply kit so you can be self-reliant for at least three days in case of emergency.  It means having a plan for how you will respond and reconnect with your family after an emergency. Here are some ways that can assist you with your preparation.

How to Reconnect with Family After a Disaster

Know How to plan for specific needs before a Disaster

How to Build an Emergency Kit

How to Practice for an Emergency

Download the Virginia  Hurricane Guide [5 mb .pdf]

ReadyVirginia and Ready.gov have all the information you need to start the conversation with your family including emergency kit checklists and disaster fact sheets.