Emergencies and disasters can strike suddenly, without warning, anywhere, at any time of the day or night. How you prepare can have a significant impact on whether you survive and how you manage in the days and weeks immediately following a disaster. At a minimum you should take the following steps to prepare for a disaster that could threaten you, your family and your property: KNOW THE RISKS associated with the area in which you live. Consult your local, county or state emergency...

Hurricanes are extremely dangerous storms that can cause widespread property damage, serious injury and threaten lives. Property damage can occur not only from hurricane force winds, but from coastal flooding caused by tidal surge, inland flooding from heavy rains, and from tornadoes that can develop as a hurricane moves over land. If you live in an area that can be threatened by a hurricane, there are steps you can take to help keep you safe, reduce the potential for property damage, and...

Floods are the most common cause of disaster in the United States and every state is at risk of flooding. Some floods can be the result of heavy rainfall that occurs over a period of several days. Other floods, called flash floods, can occur suddenly or with little warning along a stream, dry river bed or low-lying area. Whatever the cause, millions of people are affected by flooding each year and you may be at risk even if you don't live in a low-lying area or near a river or stream. BEFORE...

A tornado is a violently rotating column of air extending from a thunderstorm to the ground. Tornadoes can occur in any state, but most frequently they occur east of the Rocky Mountains. The most common time of the year for a tornado is during the spring and summer months, but a tornado can occur at any time of the year. Some Tornado Facts An average 800 tornadoes are reported nationwide each year In an average year, tornadoes cause 80 deaths and over 1,500 injuries in the United States...

At any time of the day or night, the destructive force of an earthquake can strike suddenly and without warning. A major earthquake in a populated area can cause extensive damage, injury and death, interrupt water, gas and electrical service, and disrupt communications and transportation. Fortunately, there are steps you can take to help you survive an earthquake and deal with its aftermath. BEFORE AN EARTHQUAKE It is recommended that you take the following actions to protect yourself, your...