Creating Safer, Stronger Communities Together
Emergency preparedness is a key part of community resilience and supports the US Department of Health and Human Services' goal of protecting the public through proactive planning and education. Being prepared goes beyond reacting in the moment—it starts long before an emergency occurs.
Skills like performing CPR, recognizing the signs of drowning, practicing fire escape plans, and maintaining working smoke alarms help people act quickly and confidently when every second matters. Preventive care also plays a major role by reducing the risk of severe illness and easing the strain on emergency services through regular screenings, vaccinations, and early detection.
Together, these efforts show that preparedness is both an individual and community responsibility. Staying informed, participating in safety training, and keeping up with preventive healthcare all contribute to creating safer, healthier environments. Ultimately, preparedness is about building a strong foundation of awareness and prevention that protects lives and strengthens community resilience for the future.
CPR & Cardiac Arrest
Heart attacks affect about 735,000 Americans annually. Recognizing signs and responding quickly can save lives. While calling 911 is crucial, there are immediate actions you can take.
What to Do
- Recognize cardiac arrest: Person suddenly collapses, is unresponsive, and not breathing normally.
- Call 911 immediately to get professional help on the way.
- Start chest compressions: Push hard and fast in the center of the chest at 100-120 compressions per minute.
- Use an AED if available, following the device's voice prompts.
Key Tips
- Learn CPR to perform chest compressions effectively.
- Know when to take aspirin if advised by medical professionals.
- Familiarize yourself with AED usage for automated defibrillation.
- Stay calm and act quickly during emergencies.
Call emergency services in an emergency.
Fire Safety
Fire safety is crucial as a home fire can give you only two minutes to escape. Working smoke alarms and a practiced escape plan can save lives.
Prevention
- Install and maintain smoke alarms on every level, testing monthly and replacing batteries annually.
- Plan two exit routes from every room, such as windows and doors.
- Choose a safe meeting spot outside and across the street from your home.
- Practice your escape plan with fire drills twice yearly, including nighttime evacuations.
- Cook carefully and stay in the kitchen when frying, grilling, or broiling.
- Keep flammable items like towels and packaging away from heat sources.
If There Is a Fire
- Alert everyone in the home by shouting "Fire!"
- Get out quickly using your planned exit routes.
- Crawl low under smoke if needed.
- Stop, drop, and roll if your clothes catch fire.
- Meet at the designated safe spot outside.
- Call 911 from a safe location.
In an emergency, call 911.
Preventive Care
Preventive care involves proactive steps to stay healthy and avoid illness. This includes vaccinations, health screenings, and regular checkups to detect issues early.
Daily Habits
- Stay up to date on vaccinations to protect against preventable diseases.
- Schedule regular health screenings for early detection of conditions.
- Attend annual checkups for overall health monitoring.
- Monitor vital health indicators like blood pressure and weight.
- Complete recommended cancer screenings such as mammograms or colonoscopies.
- Practice healthy habits like balanced diet and exercise.
Why Preventive Care Matters
Preventive care reduces the risk of chronic diseases, catches health issues early, and supports community resilience by preventing outbreaks and emergency complications.
Emergency Preparedness Checklist
Use this checklist to assess and improve your preparedness. Small steps make a big difference.
Basics
- Complete CPR and first aid certification.
- Know location of nearest AED devices.
- Keep first aid kit stocked and accessible.
- Ensure family members can swim or wear life jackets.
- Install four-sided pool fencing with self-latching gates.
- Install smoke alarms on every level and test monthly.
- Create and practice fire escape plan twice yearly.
Medical
- Schedule annual checkups for all family members.
- Keep vaccinations up to date per CDC guidelines.
- Complete recommended health screenings.
- Maintain updated medication lists.
Communication
- Establish emergency contacts and meeting points.
- Have a family communication plan.
- Keep phone charged and emergency numbers programmed.
Documents
- Store important documents in a waterproof container.
- Keep copies of IDs, insurance, and health records.
- Update emergency plans and contacts regularly.
Note: Update first aid kits and supplies every 6–12 months.