Emergency Preparedness

Emergencies affect children in unique ways, making them more vulnerable than adults in many situations. Their physical and emotional needs require special attention, and understanding how to support them before, during, and after a disaster is essential. This page provides guidance on how to protect children, reduce their stress, and ensure their safety in the event of an emergency.

Ready in 3: Simple Steps to Emergency Preparedness

The "Ready in 3" program from the Department of Health and Senior Services outlines three critical steps to ensure you’re prepared:

1. Create a Plan – Know how you will communicate, where you will go, and what you will do in an emergency.
2. Prepare a Kit – Assemble essential supplies, such as water, food, medications, and first-aid materials, for at least 72 hours.
3. Stay Informed – Be aware of potential hazards in your area and know how to get reliable updates.

For more details, visit the Ready in 3 website.

Red Cross Mobile Apps for Emergency Support

Stay prepared and informed with mobile apps from the American Red Cross, designed to provide critical guidance and updates in emergencies.

• First Aid – Learn life-saving skills for everyday emergencies.
• Flood – Get tips for preparing your home and family for flooding.
• Tornado – Be ready for tornadoes with safety advice and alerts.
• Shelter Finder – Locate nearby shelters during disasters.
• Pet First Aid – Veterinary advice to care for pets in emergencies.

Visit the American Red Cross website to download these apps.

Additional Emergency Resources

Access these tools to expand your preparedness:

• Business Continuity and Disaster Preparedness Planning
• Caring for Children in Disasters
• Preparing Pets for Emergencies
• Pandemic Influenza Overview
• Influenza Information
• Andrew County Emergency Management
• Ready.gov
• Protecting Houses of Worship

Be Ready, Stay Safe

Preparedness is the key to protecting your family, pets, and community during an emergency. By taking simple steps today—planning ahead, assembling supplies, and staying informed—you can face the unexpected with confidence. Start your emergency preparedness journey now and ensure peace of mind for the future.

Additional Resources