You could be anywhere when disaster strikes – at work, at school or in the car. How will you contact your family?
Emergencies and disasters can strike quickly and without warning, such as an earthquake.
![Small family of four](https://s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/washingtoncountyor.gov/styles/max_325_wide/s3/2022-06/Ind-Family-of-4_sm-jpg.jpg?VersionId=gei_iQubVliVs2aRafjzfyfGeqM8mnCQ&itok=UdPzqCc3)
Or, they may develop slowly and allow adequate time for public warning, such as with a severe winter storm. Either way, there are proven steps you can take individually or with your family to increase your chances of survival and build self-reliance and confidence that you've got it handled.
The links provided below are to reliable resources from a variety of organizations. Refer to these as you put together a plan to systematically plan for the disasters and significant emergencies that are expected here. Whenever possible, involve your family and your neighborhood. Preparedness is a team sport.
Get informed
- Learn what to expect and how to respond
- Types of Emergencies - Be Red Cross Ready
- The Cascadia Subduction Zone threat
- FEMA Earthquake Home Hazard Hunt - Prevent Injuries
Make a plan
Assemble a kit
- Basic Disaster Supplies Kit
- Build a Survival Kit - Be Red Cross Ready
- Kit Contents and Storage Locations
- Creating and Storing an Emergency Water Supply