Emergency Preparedness

Preparedness is being ready to respond to any emergency at any time. For organizations it means planning, prioritizing, arranging resources, training staff and raising public awareness. For individuals it means being aware of potential hazards, maintaining current contact information and personal survival items, and taking the necessary steps to ensure the life, health and safety of loved ones, including the well-being and safety of pets and livestock are protected.

While there is no way to predict what kind of emergency could happen, there are some simple steps all individuals, organizations and households can take to help better prepare themselves. Advanced preparedness greatly reduces fear, confusion, and anxiety and can allow certain dangers to be avoided completely. Communities, families and individuals should know what to do and where to seek advice and assistance in any health emergency.