Get Prepared
Are You Ready for an Emergency?
Whether it's during severe weather awareness week or not, being prepared for a disaster or emergency is everyone's responsibility. In a major disaster, city resources may be overwhelmed and citizens may have to depend on family, friends, co-workers and neighbors to provide assistance. Here are some ways to get prepared.
The Basics
Build a Kit
Everyone should have an emergency supply kit that has enough food, water and supplies to last you and your family three to seven days. Make sure your emergency kit is stocked with these items. Download a printable version to take with you to the store. Once you take a look at the basic items, consider what unique needs your family might have, such as supplies for pets or seniors.
Make a Plan
Talk with your family about what you would do in an emergency situation and determine how you will contact one another if you are separated. Ensure each member of your family has access to important phone numbers and can turn off the water, gas and electricity at the main switches if necessary. Talk with your family about evacuation and shelter locations within your home, school, or place of business.
Stay Informed
Emergency Management and Public Safety officials will be issuing important information that can not only help you protect your property but save your life. Ensure you have multiple ways to receive emergency alerts. If you have a residential landline or a cell phone that is billed within the City of Farmers Branch, you are automatically added to our Branch Alert Notification System, you can always tailor the alerts to your specific needs; utilize the Branch Alert tab to create or modify your account.
Evacuations
A wide variety of emergencies may cause an evacuation. You may have a day or two to prepare in some instances, while other situations might call for an immediate evacuation. Planning is vital to ensuring that you can evacuate quickly and safely, no matter the circumstances. View more information about how to evacuate safely. It's just one more way you can be prepared before, during, and after an evacuation.
Shelter in Place
Taking shelter is critical in times of disaster. Before disaster strikes, take some time to identify safe locations. Think about safe places at home, work and other locations you frequent. For example, if you spend a lot of time at the park, make sure you know where the safe spot is.
- Pay attention to local media outlets for official news and instructions as they become available
- Bring your family and pets inside
- Lock doors and close windows, air vents and fireplace dampers
- Turn off fans, air conditioning and forced-air heating systems
- Take your emergency supply kit unless you have reason to believe it has been contaminated
- Go into an interior room with few windows if possible
- Seal all windows, doors and air vents with thick plastic sheeting and duct tape. Consider measuring and cutting the sheeting in advance to save time
Business
Local businesses can do a lot to prepare for the impact of the many hazards and threats they face in today’s world including fires, equipment or power outages, floods, tornadoes or widespread serious illness. A lot of hazards threaten day-to-day operations and leave a business without its normal building, computer systems or employees. It is important for businesses to consider and prepare for the hazards that may disrupt normal operations.
Additional Resources
FEMA
To help you take this important step in financial disaster preparedness, the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) offers a wealth of resources for disaster preparedness and recovery.
KnoWhat2Do
KnoWhat2Do is an excellent regional resource for information and planning tips for emergencies and disasters.
More Resources
Here are a few essential resources available in this municipality that will help you stay afloat during times of need. Check the internet for other resources.