• Water (1 gallon per person per day)
• Non-perishable food (3-day supply per person)
• Battery-powered or hand-crank radio (NOAA Weather Radio)
• Flashlight and extra batteries
• First-aid kit
• Medications (7-day supply)
• Multi-tool or Swiss army knife
• Cash in small bills
• Personal identification documents
• Emergency contact information
• Cell phone and portable chargers
• Whistle (to signal for help)
• Local maps and a compass
• Dust mask, plastic sheeting, and duct tape
• Wet wipes, garbage bags, and plastic ties (for sanitation)

House Preparation:

• Know your local evacuation routes and shelter locations
• Ensure fire extinguishers are easily accessible
• Test smoke detectors and carbon monoxide detectors regularly
• Secure important documents in waterproof/fireproof containers
• Have a plan for pets, including food and transport carriers

Before the Hurricane:

• Secure outdoor furniture and objects
• Install hurricane shutters or board up windows
• Trim trees and shrubs around your home
• Check the drainage around your home
• Fill gas tanks and have extra fuel
• Prepare a "Go-Bag" for evacuation
• Review evacuation routes and local shelters
• Charge all devices and have backup power sources

Supplies:

• Extra water (2-week supply if staying in place)
• Manual can opener
• Waterproof containers for valuables
• Blankets, sleeping bags, and warm clothing
• Heavy-duty plastic bags for trash

During the Hurricane:

• Stay indoors and away from windows
• Shelter in an interior room on the lowest floor
• Use a radio to monitor weather updates
• Turn off propane tanks and other utilities if directed
• Avoid using candles due to fire hazards

After the Hurricane:

• Avoid floodwaters; they may be contaminated
• Report downed power lines to authorities
• Use extreme caution when inspecting your home for damage

Before the Tornado:

• Identify a safe room (basement, storm cellar, or interior room on the lowest floor)
• Secure outdoor objects that can become projectiles
• Keep a weather radio tuned to local alerts
• Practice tornado drills with your family

Supplies:

• Sturdy shoes for walking through debris
• Helmets, blankets, or heavy clothing for protection from debris
• Emergency kit with whistles to signal for help
• Extra car keys and vehicle emergency supplies

During the Tornado:

• Take shelter immediately in the designated safe area
• Stay away from windows and cover yourself with thick padding (mattress, blankets, etc.)
• Listen to weather alerts and wait for the all-clear signal

After the Tornado:

• Check for injuries and provide first aid as needed
• Stay clear of damaged buildings until they are declared safe
• Be cautious of fallen debris, downed power lines, and gas leaks

Before a Flood:

• Know if you live in a flood-prone area (check flood zone maps)
• Elevate electrical appliances and utilities if you live in a floodplain
• Store important documents in waterproof containers
• Clear gutters and storm drains
• Identify safe routes to higher ground

Supplies:

• Waterproof boots and clothing
• Sandbags (if available) to help divert floodwaters
• Extra water purification supplies (tablets or filters)
• NOAA Weather Radio for flood warnings

During a Flood:

• Move to higher ground immediately if flash flooding is possible
• Avoid walking or driving through floodwaters (6 inches of water can knock you down; 2 feet can sweep away a vehicle)
• Evacuate if instructed by authorities

After the Flood:

• Avoid returning home until authorities declare it safe
• Be cautious of mold, contaminated water, and structural damage
• Boil water before drinking until authorities confirm its safety

Before an Earthquake:

• Secure heavy furniture, shelves, and appliances to walls
• Know safe spots in your home (under sturdy furniture or against interior walls)
• Practice "Drop, Cover, and Hold On" drills

Supplies:

• Extra flashlights and helmets (to protect from falling debris)
• Sturdy shoes and work gloves
• Crowbar or multi-tool (to escape or help others)
• Fire extinguisher

During an Earthquake:

• Drop to the ground, cover your head, and hold on to something stable
• Stay away from windows, outside walls, and heavy furniture
• If outdoors, move to an open area away from buildings, trees, and power lines

After an Earthquake:

• Check for injuries and hazards like gas leaks or electrical sparks
• Do not enter damaged buildings until inspected for safety
• Use text messages or social media to communicate if phone lines are down

Before a Wildfire:

• Create defensible space by clearing flammable materials from around your home
• Keep a hose and fire extinguishers ready
• Have a plan to evacuate pets and livestock
• Review evacuation routes and prepare a "Go-Bag"

Supplies:

• N95 masks to protect from smoke inhalation
• Fireproof safes for important documents
• Large containers of water to douse small fires

During a Wildfire:

• Evacuate immediately if ordered by authorities
• Keep windows and doors closed to prevent smoke from entering your home
• Use a battery-powered radio for updates on fire movement

After a Wildfire:

• Return home only when authorities confirm it is safe
• Be cautious of weakened structures and hot spots that could reignite
• Wear protective clothing and respirators when cleaning up

Before an Outbreak:

• Stay informed about health risks and local advisories
• Develop a household plan to care for family members who become ill
• Ensure you have at least a 2-week supply of food, water, and medications
• Plan for potential school or business closures

Supplies:

• Non-perishable food and bottled water
• Medical supplies: thermometers, fever-reducing medications, and basic first-aid items
• Cleaning supplies: disinfectants, hand sanitizers (60% alcohol), soap
• Masks (surgical or N95) and gloves
• Prescription medications (ensure you have a multi-week supply)

During an Outbreak:

• Practice social distancing, avoiding large gatherings
• Wash hands frequently with soap for at least 20 seconds
• Disinfect commonly touched surfaces regularly
• Follow public health guidelines regarding isolation or quarantine

After the Outbreak:

• Continue practicing good hygiene to avoid resurgence
• Seek medical care if you or a family member shows symptoms
• Stay updated on vaccine or medication availability

Before a Volcanic Eruption:

• Know if you live in a volcano risk zone
• Learn evacuation routes and where the local shelters are located
• Have protective gear like goggles and masks to protect from ash

Supplies:

• Goggles and respiratory masks to filter ash particles
• Extra clothing to cover skin in case of ashfall
• Plastic sheeting and duct tape to seal windows and doors against ash
• Sturdy footwear for evacuation through rocky terrain

During a Volcanic Eruption:

• Evacuate if instructed by local authorities
• Shelter indoors if ash is falling; close windows, doors, and ventilation systems
• Avoid driving unless absolutely necessary (ash can damage engines)

After a Volcanic Eruption:

• Be cautious of falling ash and lava flows in affected areas
• Clean ash from rooftops to prevent collapse
• Wear protective masks when cleaning up ash from surfaces

Before the Storm:

• Insulate pipes to prevent freezing and bursting
• Keep extra blankets and winter clothing on hand
• Stock up on firewood or heating fuel if using alternative heat sources
• Ensure vehicles are winter-ready with antifreeze, snow tires, and emergency supplies

Supplies:

• Warm clothing and blankets
• Battery-powered heater or safe alternative heating methods
• Extra food and water, particularly non-perishables
• Shovels and snow removal tools
• Salt or sand to make walkways safer

During the Storm:

• Stay indoors and avoid unnecessary travel
• Use generators or gas stoves in well-ventilated areas to avoid carbon monoxide poisoning
• Keep faucets dripping to prevent pipes from freezing

After the Storm:

• Clear snow from roofs to avoid collapses
• Check on neighbors, especially elderly or disabled individuals
• Avoid driving until roads are cleared and safe

Before a Landslide:

• Know the risk areas for landslides near your home
• Clear drains, gutters, and culverts to ensure proper drainage
• Install retaining walls or plant vegetation to stabilize slopes
• Monitor storm and seismic activity, which can trigger landslides

Supplies:

• Sandbags or other items to divert water flow
• Sturdy boots for walking through potentially unstable terrain
• Emergency kit in case of evacuation

During a Landslide:

• Evacuate immediately if you suspect a landslide is imminent
• Listen to emergency alerts for warnings
• Avoid river valleys and low-lying areas, as these are prone to landslides

After a Landslide:

• Avoid the slide area until authorities declare it safe
• Watch for additional slides, as unstable ground may still shift
• Be aware of downed power lines, broken water lines, and other hazards

Before a Drought:

• Learn local water restrictions and conservation methods
• Reduce water usage by installing low-flow appliances and fixing leaks
• Store an emergency supply of drinking water
• Identify alternative water sources for non-drinking purposes

Supplies:

• Large containers for water storage
• Water filtration or purification tools
• Drought-tolerant plants for landscaping

During a Drought:

• Follow all water usage restrictions
• Limit non-essential water usage (lawn watering, car washing, etc.)
• Collect rainwater for use in gardening or non-potable needs

After a Drought:

• Continue practicing water conservation methods
• Repair or replace landscaping affected by the drought with drought-tolerant plants
• Maintain a supply of emergency water in case of future water shortages

Before a Chemical Spill:

• Learn the potential hazards in your area (factories, highways, railroads)
• Identify evacuation routes and shelter-in-place locations
• Know how to seal your home in case of toxic air (plastic sheeting, duct tape)

Supplies:

• Respiratory masks or gas masks for chemical inhalation protection
• Plastic sheeting and duct tape for sealing windows and doors
• Disposable gloves and protective clothing

During a Chemical Spill:

• Follow instructions from local authorities about evacuation or shelter-in-place
• Seal windows, doors, and air vents if instructed to shelter in place
• Avoid contact with spilled chemicals and fumes

After a Chemical Spill:

• Only return home when local authorities declare it safe
• Follow proper decontamination procedures (clothing disposal, cleaning)
• Avoid drinking or using tap water until confirmed safe

Before a Tsunami:

• Know if your area is prone to tsunamis (especially if you live near the coast)
• Identify evacuation routes to high ground at least 100 feet above sea level
• Sign up for tsunami alerts and understand local warning systems

Supplies:

• Waterproof emergency kit and important documents
• Life jackets or flotation devices
• Emergency whistle to signal for help

During a Tsunami:

• Evacuate immediately if you feel an earthquake near the coast or receive a warning
• Move to higher ground as quickly as possible
• Avoid rivers, streams, and coastal areas until the all-clear is given

After a Tsunami:

• Stay away from flooded areas and damaged structures
• Follow local advisories about water safety
• Be cautious of secondary waves, which can follow the initial wave

Before Civil Unrest:

• Stay informed about local news and developments
• Have a plan to shelter in place or evacuate if needed
• Identify safe routes and secure areas within your home

Supplies:

• Extra food and water to last several days
• Heavy-duty locks, bars, or security systems for your home
• Fire extinguishers to prevent arson-related fires

During Civil Unrest:

• Shelter in place, away from windows and doors
• Avoid confrontation and public gatherings
• If you need to evacuate, use less obvious routes to avoid crowds

After Civil Unrest:

• Monitor local news to determine when it’s safe to move around
• Be cautious of public spaces, which may still be volatile
• Report damage or danger to authorities

Before a Cyberattack:

• Ensure that all digital systems (computers, smartphones, etc.) are updated with the latest security patches
• Use strong, unique passwords and enable two-factor authentication
• Backup important data regularly and store copies offline
• Secure your home network with firewalls and antivirus software

Supplies:

• Printed copies of important information (bank accounts, passwords)
• Offline backups of critical files on external drives
• Cash in case ATMs or electronic payment systems fail

During a Cyberattack:

• Disconnect from the internet immediately if you suspect your systems are compromised
• Monitor news for updates about the cyberattack’s effects
• Use only verified channels to communicate and manage finances

After a Cyberattack:

• Change all passwords and monitor financial accounts for fraudulent activity
• Restore systems from clean backups if necessary
• Stay informed about any ongoing threats and take further preventive measures

Before a Dam/Levee Failure:

• Know if your home or workplace is in a dam or levee failure risk zone
• Understand local evacuation routes and potential flood areas
• Monitor weather reports and structural updates about local dams or levees

Supplies:

• Waterproof emergency bag with food, water, and first aid supplies
• Life jackets or flotation devices
• Portable radio for updates and evacuation alerts

During a Dam/Levee Failure:

• Evacuate immediately if warnings are issued
• Move to higher ground, avoiding river valleys and low-lying areas
• Do not return to your home until authorities give the all-clear

After a Dam/Levee Failure:

• Avoid walking or driving through flooded areas
• Inspect your home for water damage before returning inside
• Boil water until authorities confirm it’s safe to drink

Before a Heatwave:

• Check for local weather warnings and heat advisories
• Ensure your home has proper ventilation or air conditioning
• Plan to stay indoors during peak heat hours (11 AM – 3 PM)

Supplies:

• Extra water and electrolyte drinks to stay hydrated
• Battery-powered fans or cooling towels
• Lightweight, loose-fitting clothing

During a Heatwave:

• Drink water regularly, even if you’re not thirsty
• Avoid strenuous activities during the hottest part of the day
• Check on vulnerable individuals (elderly, children, pets) to ensure they are cool and hydrated

After a Heatwave:

• Continue to monitor for heat-related illnesses (heat exhaustion, heat stroke)
• Replenish water and electrolyte supplies
• Inspect air conditioning units and cooling systems for maintenance

Before a Drought:

• Implement water-saving measures around your home (low-flow faucets, efficient irrigation)
• Monitor local government regulations for water usage restrictions
• Stockpile an emergency supply of drinking water

Supplies:

• Water purification tools or filters
• Rain barrels to collect and store rainwater
• Drought-tolerant landscaping plants

During a Drought:

• Follow all local water usage restrictions
• Limit water usage for non-essential purposes (such as landscaping)
• Store water for emergency use

After a Drought:

• Continue to practice water conservation to avoid future shortages
• Restore damaged vegetation with drought-resistant plants
• Test water quality to ensure it is safe for drinking and use

Before an Avalanche:

• Know if you are in an avalanche-prone area (usually mountainous regions)
• Learn how to identify avalanche warning signs (e.g., cracking snow)
• Take an avalanche safety course if you live or travel in snowy areas
• Carry avalanche safety equipment (beacon, shovel, probe)

Supplies:

• Avalanche beacon (transmitter to help rescuers locate you)
• Avalanche airbag backpack (to help you stay near the surface)
• Shovel and snow probe for digging out

During an Avalanche:

• Try to move to the side of the avalanche path
• Drop equipment to lighten your load
• "Swim" in the snow to stay near the surface
• Make an air pocket in front of your face if buried

After an Avalanche:

• Try to dig yourself out or signal rescuers with noise or light
• Stay calm and conserve oxygen while waiting for help
• Avoid avalanche-prone areas until conditions improve

Before a Sinkhole:

• Know if you live in a sinkhole-prone area (limestone, karst regions)
• Check for signs of sinkholes (e.g., cracking walls, sagging ground)
• Regularly inspect property for depressions or unusual ground movement

Supplies:

• Emergency evacuation kit, as sinkholes often occur without much warning
• Contact information for local geological survey or land authorities

During a Sinkhole Event:

• Evacuate immediately if you suspect a sinkhole is forming
• Avoid driving or walking near the area where a sinkhole is developing
• Move to a safe distance and call emergency services

After a Sinkhole:

• Avoid returning to the area until it’s been assessed by professionals
• Be cautious of other nearby areas that may also collapse
• Report the sinkhole to local authorities

Before a Terrorist Attack/Active Shooter Event:

• Stay aware of your surroundings in crowded public places
• Know the location of exits in buildings and public spaces
• Learn "Run, Hide, Fight" protocols for active shooter situations

Supplies:

• A personal emergency kit with first-aid supplies and communication tools
• Download apps for emergency alerts and guidance during a crisis

During a Terrorist Attack/Active Shooter Event:

• Run: Evacuate if you can do so safely
• Hide: If evacuation isn’t possible, find a secure place to hide
• Fight: As a last resort, defend yourself if your life is in immediate danger

After a Terrorist Attack/Active Shooter Event:

• Wait for law enforcement to secure the area before moving
• Report any suspicious activity or unattended items to authorities
• Seek medical attention for injuries

Before a Power Outage:

• Make sure you have a backup generator or alternative power source
• Keep extra batteries for flashlights, radios, and other essentials
• Stock up on non-perishable food that doesn’t require cooking

Supplies:

• Flashlights with extra batteries
• Battery-powered or hand-crank radio
• Power banks or solar chargers for electronic devices
• Non-perishable food and water

During a Power Outage:

• Use flashlights rather than candles to reduce fire risk
• Keep refrigerators and freezers closed as much as possible
• Unplug electronics to prevent damage when the power is restored

After a Power Outage:

• Check on neighbors, especially those who may need assistance
• Inspect food for spoilage if the outage lasted more than a few hours
• Replenish emergency supplies

Before the Blizzard:

• Weatherproof your home to avoid heat loss (seal windows and doors)
• Stock up on food, water, and heating supplies
• Ensure your vehicle is winter-ready (snow tires, antifreeze)

Supplies:

• Extra blankets and winter clothing
• Snow removal tools (shovels, ice scrapers, etc.)
• Rock salt or sand for melting ice on walkways
• Fuel for heating (if using a generator or fireplace)

During the Blizzard:

• Stay indoors and off the roads
• Use heating devices safely to avoid carbon monoxide poisoning
• Check on vulnerable family members or neighbors

After the Blizzard:

• Clear snow from driveways, walkways, and roofs to prevent damage
• Be cautious of ice and slippery conditions when walking or driving
• Inspect your home for frozen pipes or other damage

Before a Geomagnetic Storm:

• Stay informed about space weather alerts (NOAA’s Space Weather Prediction Center)
• Protect sensitive electronics by using surge protectors
• Back up important data on electronic devices

Supplies:

• Faraday bags or cages to protect electronic devices from electromagnetic pulses (EMPs)
• Extra power banks and batteries for electronics
• Printed copies of important information in case electronic records are lost

During a Geomagnetic Storm:

• Unplug electronics to prevent damage from power surges
• Avoid relying on GPS navigation, as it may be disrupted
• Monitor emergency channels for updates

After a Geomagnetic Storm:

• Check electronics for damage or data loss
• Seek help for communication disruptions, particularly for air travel or navigation systems
• Restore any interrupted systems or networks carefully

Before a Meteor Impact:

• Stay informed about the likelihood of meteor impacts in your region
• Know where underground or reinforced shelters are located
• Have plans for evacuating to areas away from projected impact zones

Supplies:

• Sturdy helmets and goggles to protect from flying debris
• Emergency whistle or signal device
• Survival kit including food, water, and medical supplies

During a Meteor Impact:

• If evacuation is not possible, shelter in place in a reinforced room or basement
• Protect your head and neck from falling debris
• Stay away from windows, which could shatter from the impact

After a Meteor Impact:

• Avoid the impact area until authorities declare it safe
• Be cautious of secondary effects like fires, tsunamis, or air contamination
• Follow official guidance for evacuation and safety