Plan Ahead

Residents and businesses are encouraged to prepare to be self-sufficient for a minimum of three days (72 hours) and longer depending on the type of emergency. It may take several days for the government and utilities to return programs and services.

After looking around where you live or work and understanding the potential threats, follow these steps:

Make a Plan
Your family may be at different locations when an emergency occurs so you will need to a plan to contact each family member.

• • The National Capital Region's Make A Plan Web site can help you design a plan.
    
    

Get an Emergency Supply Kit
These can be purchased from numerous sources, including the American Red Cross, or you can put one together from basic supplies you already own. Just remember the basics for survival – fresh water, food, clean air and warmth – when putting together your kit.

• • Home Emergency Supply Kit Checklist    
  • Workplace Emergency Supply Kit Checklist
    
  • Vehicle Emergency Supply Kit Checklist
    
    

Stay Informed 
Access to information is critical before, during and after an emergency.

• • Sign up for the county’s Community Emergency Alert Network.
  • Know the various ways to stay informed.
  • Learn about emergency plans at your child’s school and at your place of work.

More Information

• Individual and Family Preparedness Publications, Links and Resources
  (Topics include planning, making a preparedness kit, children, pets, older adults, people with disabilities)
  
  
• Business Preparedness Publications, Links and Resources
  
  
• Tips for Natural Disasters/Weather
  

If you have questions about emergency preparedness, contact the Fairfax County Office of Emergency Management at 703-324-2362, TTY 711.