What to expect in an emergency situation and how to respond:

First Responder Helplines

General emergency: 911

Disaster distress: 1 (800) 985-5990

Disaster assistant: 1 (844) 684-6333

Email the police: Here

Click on each disaster for specific information:

Wildfire

  • Fast-spreading flames can engulf homes and roads.
  • Smoke inhalation causes respiratory issues.
  • Ash and embers can travel miles and start new fires.

3 Steps to Stay Safe

  1. Evacuate early when advised — don’t wait.
  2. Wear N95 masks or cover your mouth with a damp cloth to avoid inhaling smoke.
  3. Clear flammable materials (like dry leaves) around your home to slow fire spread.

Flood

  • Drowning is the leading cause of flood-related deaths.
  • Contaminated water can spread disease.
  • Floodwaters can cause power outages and structural damage.

3 Steps to Stay Safe

  1. Move to higher ground immediately — never walk or drive through floodwaters.
  2. Disconnect electrical appliances to prevent electrocution.
  3. Listen to alerts from local emergency services for evacuation orders.

Earthquake

  • Falling debris and collapsing buildings cause injury or death.
  • Gas leaks may lead to fires.
  • Aftershocks can strike unexpectedly.

3 Steps to Stay Safe

  1. Drop, Cover, and Hold On under sturdy furniture.
  2. Stay indoors until the shaking stops and it's safe.
  3. Check for injuries and gas leaks after the quake — use flashlights, not candles.

Hurricane

  • High winds can tear down structures and cause flying debris.
  • Storm surge and heavy rain can flood large areas.
  • Long-lasting power outages and food shortages.

3 Steps to Stay Safe

  1. Evacuate if instructed, especially from coastal or low-lying areas.
  2. Secure windows and bring in outdoor items to prevent wind damage.
  3. Stock emergency supplies (water, nonperishable food, medicine, batteries).

Tornado

  • Extremely fast winds (over 200 mph) destroy buildings and flip vehicles.
  • Flying debris is a major hazard.
  • Tornadoes can form with little warning.

3 Steps to Stay Safe

  1. Go to a basement or interior room without windows (like a bathroom).
  2. Cover yourself with a mattress or heavy blankets.
  3. Listen to a weather radio or alert app for real-time updates.

Winter Storm

  • Hypothermia and frostbite from extreme cold.
  • Slippery roads and walkways leading to accidents and injuries.
  • Power outages can cut off heat, light, and access to emergency services.

3 Steps to Stay Safe

  1. Stay indoors and heat only one room if power is limited — wear layers and use blankets.
  2. Avoid driving — if you must travel, keep an emergency kit in the car (blankets, food, water, flashlight).
  3. Prevent carbon monoxide poisoning — never use gas stoves or grills indoors for heat.
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