Emergency and disaster planning

Make and practice a disaster plan for you and your family. This can help keep everyone safe, aware and together. Your plan should include an emergency supply kit as well as details on:

• What to do and where to go if you have to leave your home
• Where to meet if your family gets separated 
• How to get emergency alerts and warnings

Some family members may need special care during an emergency. Make sure you have a plan for everyone, including:

• Older adults
• Children
• Those with disabilities
• Pets

Learn how to make a disaster plan.

In the event of a disaster, make sure you have an emergency supply kit ready when you need it. Prepare your kit to include at least three days’ worth of food, water, clothing and medicines. And add any other items based on your family’s needs. 

Need to make a checklist? See this emergency supply list (PDF) for ideas.

Learn more about preparing an emergency supply kit.

Sign up for your electricity provider’s medical preparedness program:

• SRP
• APS

You’ll want to look for shelter before a disaster happens. If you have to leave your home, make sure you know a safe place to go. The more options, the better. 

You may find shelter by staying at a:

• Family member or friend’s house
• Hotel
• Community shelter 

Find emergency shelters and plan to evacuate.

Preparing your home before a storm or a disaster can help you lower the chance of damage. 

Take these steps to help secure your home:

• Turn off electricity and water.
• Leave natural gas on.
• Turn off propane gas service.
• If you expect flooding, use sandbags to keep water away from your home.
• Cover the outside of windows with shutters or plywood.
• Bring things indoors (outdoor furniture, toys, hanging plants and any other objects that can blow away).

Learn more about how to secure your home during these storms and emergencies:

• Severe thunderstorms: How to protect your family and property
  
• Wildfire risks: Projects to help you protect your home

Your disaster plan should include your pets, too. The best way to prepare is to pack a pet “go bag.” Make sure it includes food, medicines, documents and other items your pets may need. If you have to leave your home, don’t leave your pets behind. Be sure to take them with you.

Here are some other steps you can take to keep your pets safe:

• Bring pets indoors.
• Find a pet-friendly hotel in case you need to relocate.
• Make sure your pets are current on vaccines. Pet shelters may require proof of vaccination.
• Have current photos of your pets.
• Keep a collar with an ID tag on your pets.
• Have a leash or pet carrier ready.
• Have enough food, water and newspapers or trash bags for clean-up.

Learn more about how to protect your pets.

Check these links for more info on preparing for emergencies.

Disaster preparedness resources

Portable generator safety tips (PDF)