Critical Infrastructure Disruptions

What it is

Critical infrastructure includes the systems and services people rely on every day, such as electricity, water, wastewater, communications, fuel, transportation, food supply, and health care. A disruption can affect safety, services, and daily routines.

Why it matters in Tennessee

Severe weather, cyber incidents, accidents, equipment failures, supply chain issues, or other emergencies can disrupt essential services. Even a short outage can create challenges for people who depend on power, medical devices, transportation, or communications.

What to do before

• Keep emergency supplies at home, including food, water, flashlights, batteries, and medications.
• Charge phones and backup batteries when severe weather or outages are possible.
• Make a plan for medical devices or refrigerated medications.
• Know how to manually open garage doors or gates.
• Keep paper copies of important phone numbers.

What to do during

• Report outages to the appropriate utility or service provider.
• Use generators outdoors only and away from windows.
• Conserve phone battery and use text messages when possible.
• Avoid downed power lines and damaged utility equipment.
• Follow local instructions about water use, boil water advisories, road closures, or service interruptions.

What to do after

• Restock emergency supplies.
• Safely discard food if it was not kept at a safe temperature.
• Follow official instructions before drinking or using water after a water system issue.
• Check on people who may need help.
• Review your plan and prepare for future outages.

Stay informed

Follow updates from local officials, utility providers, transportation agencies, and your county emergency management agency during major service disruptions.