Disasters strike quickly and without warning.
During or after a disaster caused by fire, flood, earthquake, tornado, hurricane or other disaster, local officials and relief workers will arrive on scene, but you should never assume they will be able to reach everyone right away. That's why it's so important to prepare and practice a Family Disaster Plan. To find out, contact your local emergency management office or fire department to ask what types of disasters are most likely to happen. These agencies may already have pamphlets on how you can prepare for each type of disaster. They can also give you information about your community's warning signals if they exist, post-disaster animal care, and the best ways to help the elderly or disabled.