BEFORE DISASTER STRIKES

Disasters disrupt our lives. Some disasters, like floods and home fires, can occur anywhere. Other disasters, like wildfires and hurricanes, are more common in certain areas. Climate change is causing more frequent and extreme weather events. This increases our risk of death, injury, property loss and disruption. But we can take action to prepare. Prepare now to protect yourself, your loved ones and your home.

The best time to prepare for a disaster is before a disaster strikes. In this section we offer information why the need for preparedness for the many different types of disasters that can occur.

Preparation For Common Emergencies and Natural Disasters Starts Long Before Disaster Strikes

You can not prepare for disaster during a disaster. Because our family lives in Georgia there are number of common emergencies and natural disasters that we like to be prepared for. Click on the learn more button under each natural disaster to learn how you too can be prepared for the unexpected long before disaster strikes.

FLOODING

SAFETY

Never walk, swim or drive through flood water. As little as 6 inches of floodwater can knock you off of your feet. Remember: "Turn around, don’t drown!"

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FIRE

SAFETY

You can protect yourself from home fires by taking two simple steps: Test your smoke alarms monthly and practice your fire escape plan.

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EXTREME HEAT

SAFETY

Stay aware of the heat and heat index. Drink plenty of fluids, stay indoors, and avoid strenuous activities during the hottest part of the day. Check on friends and neighbors who may need help (older adults, people with disabilities, people who are sick, or people with young children).

POWER OUTAGE SAFETY

Keep battery-powered lanterns and flashlights on hand. Don't use candles. Understand how to safely use generators, and never use generators indoors or in enclosed spaces.

THUNDERSTORM

SAFETY

If you are outside, immediately seek shelter indoors. Remain indoors. Designate a safe place in your home to gather away from windows, glass doors and skylights. Remember: "When the thunder roars, go indoors!"

WINTER STORM

SAFETY

Keep an emergency kit in your vehicle in case you get caught in a storm while on the road. Avoid driving, stay indoors and dress in layers of lightweight, loose-fitting clothing to stay warm.

LANDSLIDE

SAFETY

Learn about local evacuation plans. Talk to everyone in your household about what you'll do if a landslide happens.

EARTHQUAKE

SAFETY

Practice DROP, COVER and HOLD ON with everyone in your household.

HURRICANE

SAFTEY

Keep an emergency kit on hand, and create an evacuation plan for your household, including pets.

WILD FIRE

SAFTEY

Sign up for the emergency notification systems that your community uses. Be prepared to evacuate at a moment's notice, and keep an emergency kit in your car. Listen to local radio and television for the latest on safe evacuation routes.

EVERYONE CAN BE READY...

CHILDREN

Emergencies are frightening and stressful even for adults – and can be even more so for children. Acknowledging their natural feelings and providing age-appropriate information can help children feel less anxious.

OLDER ADULTS

Older adults are assets in the community and will often be looked to for their wisdom and the unique gifts they can offer in a disaster. Being prepared and ready before and during such an event will greatly impact your ability to help and be helped during an emergency or disaster.

PEOPLE WITH DISABILITIES

When an emergency occurs, mobility challenges and hearing, learning, or seeing disabilities can add complication. We offer practical advice on getting informed, making a plan, assembling a kit, and keeping your plans up to date.

PETS

Emergency preparedness includes all members of your family including your pets. Learn how to take care of you pets needs during an emergency. No pet should ever be left behind.

PRESERVING MEMORIES DURING A DISASTER

Learn how to protect and preserve the memories most precious to you

OTHER TYPES OF DISASTERS

Disasters come in all different sizes. Learn more about other kinds of disasters that you can prepare for.