Disaster Preparation

Federal agencies and members of Congress are vital resources to look to if a natural disaster or terrorist act impacts your area.  This web site not only provides tips on how you can prepare for emergency situations, but also includes emergency contact information for organizations who provide disaster relief assistance to those living in impacted areas. 

Although the hurricanes and flooding that have affected the U.S. in recent years have been the driving force behind the creation of this update, the information included below can also be used to prepare for any type of disaster, including floods, fires, tornados, earthquakes or acts of terrorism.

Which Disasters Impact Your Community
Emergency Assistance in Your Community 
Replacement for Important Documents
Create an Emergency Kit
Practice Makes Perfect

Which Disasters Impact Your Community?

• National Weather Service
• Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA)
• Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC)

Emergency Assistance in Your Community

There are several different organizations, both public and private, that provide disaster relief assistance to people living in affected areas.  The organizations listed below are a few of the organizations that provide assistance to people nationwide.  You should also contact your local, state or county’s department of emergency management (or similarly named agency) to obtain assistance information as well. 

Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) -- Those living is disaster affected areas can call the FEMA disaster hotline at 1-800-621-FEMA (3362) or by visiting their website.  The information includes "Are You Ready? An In-depth Guide to Citizen Preparedness", FEMA’s most comprehensive guide on emergency preparedness.

• Do these plans consider your special needs or a family member's special needs?
• Steps to take after a disaster.
• How to apply for disaster assistance guide.

Members of Congress -- Your U.S. senators and representatives will have staff available to assist you should a disaster or terrorist act affect your area.  They will be able to provide you with the latest information about federal resources that are available and often local resources as well.  You can contact them by calling the Capitol Switchboard at (202) 224-3121.  To identify your members of Congress and obtain their contact information, including locations and phone numbers for local offices, please visit the Advocacy Action Center of The ALS Association and enter your zip code in the space provided.

The American Red Cross -- The American Red Cross and its local chapters are a helpful resource to contact following a disaster.  Information is available by calling 1-866-GET INFO (438-4636) or by visiting the Red Cross website.

State and Local Assistance -- State and local governments provide emergency relief assistance.  Check local telephone listings to find the contact information for your state’s office of emergency management or similarly named agency.  Or, call your local police or fire department.  Many states and localities provide special assistance for the disabled and people with special needs. Contact your state or county office of emergency management (or similarly named agency) to learn what emergency services may be available for the disabled, including special shelters that will accommodate the disabled, or transportation assistance in the event of an evacuation. You may need to register in advance for this special assistance.