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Emergencies can change your day in an instant. Planning ahead can help you protect your household, stay connected, and know what to do when normal routines are disrupted.
You don’t have to prepare for every possible disaster all at once. Start with the people who depend on you, the places you spend time, and the things you would need if your normal routine changed.
Start here
Getting ready doesn’t have to be complicated. Begin with a few questions:
- Who would I need to contact?
- Where would I go if I could not stay home?
- What would I need for the first day or two?
- Who may need my help?
- What information would I wish I had already written down?
You don’t need a perfect plan. You just need a place to start. Use the sections below to take one step at a time.
Know what your household would do if you are separated, need to leave, or can’t get home.
Create a simple plan for how you will contact each other, where you will meet, and what each person may need during an emergency. Talk through your plan with the people in your household, check your supplies, and update your contacts when work, school, health, caregiving, or transportation needs change.
Different places face different risks. Learn what emergencies are most likely where you live, work, study, and travel.
Understanding your local risks can help you make better decisions before and during an emergency.
Think through what your household would need if you have to stay home, leave quickly, or go without power for a period of time.
Start with basics like water, food, medications, chargers, important documents, and supplies for children, pets, or medical needs.
Know how you will receive alerts, get official information, and contact the people who matter most.
Emergencies can affect cell service, power, internet, and transportation. Plan for more than one way to stay informed.
Every household is different. Find guidance for your family, responsibilities, and daily needs.
This section includes information for families with children, older adults, people with disabilities, people with medical needs, pet owners, caregivers, renters, and others who may need to plan for specific situations.
Small steps you can take today
Preparedness doesn’t have to happen all at once. Start with one small action.
You can save emergency contacts, sign up for alerts, write down an out-of-town contact, take photos of important documents, or talk with your household about where to meet.
One small step today can make a difficult moment easier later.