Emergencies can strike at any time. Everyone has a role in emergency preparedness. People must be ready to act on their own in response to an emergency event. Start today to prepare for an emergency.
The most common weather-related disasters are thunderstorms, floods, tornadoes and blizzards. Other possible emergencies include widespread power outages, contagious disease, chemical spills and terrorism. Most of these emergencies are best handled by planning ahead. The county assists with handling emergencies by:
- Partnering with local communities to provide the Dakota Communications Center. The center distributes information through the Emergency Alert Program notification system and provides 911 assistance.
- Operating immunization clinics or distributing immunizations for contagious or widespread disease.
- Providing information and resources to families to help them plan ahead.
Make an emergency plan
One of the most important steps you can take in preparing for emergencies is to develop a family emergency plan. Your family may not be together when disaster strikes, so it is important for all family members to understand the plan.
Visit the
Ready.gov website for checklists and considerations when creating a plan for your family.
More steps you can take
Make an emergency kit
A surge in demand for emergency services during a disaster or disease outbreaks may require you to survive on your own for several days. Having an emergency supply kit that includes water, food and other emergency supplies can help keep your family comfortable or save your life.
Visit the
Ready.gov website for a detailed list of items to include in your emergency kit. The site also includes a printable list you can bring to the store, and items specific to pets, seniors, and other unique groups.
Storage: Store the emergency supply kit in a convenient location so that is can be brought with you in the event of an evacuation or into your shelter location. Be sure family members know the shelter location and where the kit is kept in the shelter.
Check and refresh the kit: You should check and refresh your emergency supply kit twice a year. When you change your clocks at the beginning and end of Daylights Savings Time is a good time to check your supplies.
Plan for people with functional needs
If you or someone close to you has a disability, access or functional need, you may have to take additional steps to protect yourself and your family in an emergency.
Plan for your pets
Take steps to prepare for your pets' safety during an emergency.