MAKE A PLAN. STAY READY.
Emergency Preparedness Basics
Practical tools and trusted information to help you prepare for any emergency.
Preparedness is more than having supplies. It is knowing your risks, having a plan, knowing where to find trusted information, and staying connected to the people around you.
Start with the basics below. They work for every kind of emergency.
Because you matter.
Four Things You Can Do Today
Every step counts. Start with one.
Get local alerts
Sign up for Alert Durham by phone call, text, or email.
Start your kit
Begin with water, food, a flashlight, and a first aid kit.
Copy key papers
Put copies of IDs and insurance papers in a waterproof container.
Name your helpers
Choose more than one person who can check on you in an emergency.
MAKE YOUR PLAN
Create Your Household Emergency Plan
If an emergency happened today, would your household know what to do?
How would you get alerts? Where would you meet? What would you take with you? Who would check on you?
Planning Ahead's Household Emergency Plan helps you answer those questions before an emergency.
Use the plan to:
✓ Sign up for alerts
✓ Write down emergency contacts
✓ Pick two meeting places
✓ Build a kit for 3 to 7 days
✓ Plan for medicines and medical devices
✓ Protect important documents
✓ Keep some cash on hand
✓ Learn how to shut off utilities
✓ Plan for your pets
✓ Build your support network
Download your printable plan (PDF) and keep it with your emergency supplies.
What Goes in a Basic Kit
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Water: 1 gallon per person per day for 3 to 7 days, plus food that won't spoil and a manual can opener.
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A battery-powered or hand-crank radio, flashlight, extra batteries, and a whistle.
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A first aid kit and at least a 7-day supply of medicines, plus glasses or hearing aid batteries.
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Phone chargers and a backup battery, cash, copies of important documents, and pet supplies.
What To Do
When an emergency happens
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Follow instructions from local officials and keep listening for updates.
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Wireless Emergency Alerts come to your phone automatically. No sign-up needed.
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Leave right away if told to evacuate. Take your kit and your pets.
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Use flashlights, not candles, if the power goes out.
After an emergency
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Go home only when officials say it is safe.
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Do not turn your gas back on yourself. Call a trained professional.
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Take photos of damage for insurance. Call NC 211 for free help finding local services.
Check on others
Know your neighbors, especially older adults and people with disabilities. Make sure at least one helper has a spare key and knows where your supplies are. Durham County also offers Access and Functional Needs Shelter Registration for residents who may need extra help during an evacuation.
Trusted Resources
Official sources for alerts, safety tips, and local help. Links open in a new tab.