Preparedness and Planning Information

Man in a wheelchair pushing himself in two feet of flood waters “Blue Sky Days” are days when the sun is shining, the winds are calm, the earth is steady, the rivers are in their banks, and the electric and lights are on and steady. These are days when people do not think about being prepared for emergencies, but these are the very days that can become very “dark” very fast. These are the days when you can start making your Plan.

Being prepared for disasters can seem daunting for everyone–but especially for people with disabilities. But even a simple plan can make an everyday emergency or a major disaster easier to manage.

You will find on this page links to other sites to help you begin the planning process. It is a process because planning should never stop. Any good plan is flexible to the situation, adjustable to changing circumstances, and continually evaluated for effectiveness.

Winter Weather Safety Tips and Information

The National Weather Service provides information on how to be safe during hazardous winter weather. More…

FEMA’s Make a Plan Checklist (Step-by-Step)

Various items are shown including a flashlight, first aid kit, water bottle, notepad and pen, packaged food in a duffle bag — A Go-Bag can turn into a “Stay Bag” with the correct supplies.

“‘FEMA’s mission is helping people before, during, and after disasters.” More…

NJ Office of Emergency Management’s Plan & Prepare Page

“NJOEM works closely with our federal, state and local partners to prepare for virtually all hazards, natural or manmade, that could affect New Jersey’s families, communities and businesses. There are also things you can do to prepare for the unexpected and reduce the stress you may feel should an emergency arise.” More…

American Red Cross “Red Cross Ready

“Do you ever lie awake at night worrying about disasters that could strike your home and family? Being prepared may not prevent a disaster but it will give you confidence to meet the challenge. And the Red Cross will be at your side. Our interactive preparedness program will give you a great start.” More…

Do 1 Thing per Month to be Prepared

“Being prepared for disasters and emergencies can seem like a big job. Many people don’t know where to start, so they never start at all. With Do 1 Thing you can take small steps that make a big difference in an emergency. Do 1 Thing is a 12-month program that makes it easy for you to prepare yourself, your family, and your community for emergencies or disasters.” More…

Prepare for your Pets and Service Animals

“Pets cannot plan for themselves. Use the month to make a plan for your pet’s safety. If you need to evacuate your home for any reason, do not forget your pet. The Ready Campaign offers guidance and tips”

Be Prepared! Helpful Disaster Safety Tips for Pet Owners

This is a Blog with information about pet care before, during, and after disasters.

Don’t wait, communicate with your family today about an emergency plan today. Visit www.Ready.gov/communicate for tools and resources to make and practice a family emergency communication plan. In recent years, devastating earthquakes, tornadoes, floods and wildfires have highlighted the need for Americans to prepare for natural disaster. However, according to the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA), half of Americans have not discussed or developed a family emergency plan.