Introduction

Some of the things you can do to prepare for the unexpected, such as making an emergency supply kit and developing a family communications plan, are the same for both a natural or man-made emergency.  However, there are important differences among potential emergencies that will impact the decisions you make and the actions you take.  Learn more about the potential emergencies that could happen where you live and the appropriate way to respond to them.  In addition, learn about the emergency plans that have been established in your area by your state and local government.
Emergency preparedness is no longer the sole concern of earthquake prone Californians and those who live in the part of the country known as "Tornado Alley."  For Americans, preparedness must now account for man-made disasters as well as natural ones.  Knowing what to do during an emergency is an important part of being prepared and may make all the difference when seconds count.
Are you prepared?
Your family may not be together when disaster strikes, so it is important to plan in advance: how you will contact one another; how you will get back together; and what you will do in different situations.
You can begin this process by gathering family members and making sure each person is well-informed on potential hazards and community plans (Getting Informed).   Discuss with them what you would do if family members were not home when a warning is issued or a disaster strikes.
Riverside County has an 'Early Warning Notification System' to provide first responders an additional tool to alert, warn and inform the public of an incident that impacts part or all of Riverside County. Riverside County residents can add their cell phone numbers to the existing home phone data base.   Go to Riverside County then click on the 'Early Warning Notification System' under 'News & Highlights' on the right and follow the instructions.

Additionally, your family plan should address the following:
·  Evacuation Plans
·  Plans When Not Together
·  Care for Pets: Information for Pet Owners
·  Care for Livestock: Information for Livestock Owners
·  Safety Skills
·  Recovering After the Disaster