Disaster Preparedness

Roanoke County's Emergency Communication Center offers a variety of resources to help citizens prepare for a natural disaster or other emergency needs.

Emergency Kits

As the temperature rises, it is the perfect time to check your emergency supplies kits. Make sure your supplies are not expired, leaking, or damaged in any way. Bottled water can expire, so be sure to check your water supply as well. Examine your supplies for punctures, dents, rust, and other signs of leaks. Dispose of damaged supplies. If you have used items from your emergency supplies during recent events, you can replenish these or other missing items now. 

Place these newer items in the back or bottom of your emergency supplies kit, so that you will use older items first. Ensure that your supplies are stored in a cool, dark, dry place that is free of pests and household cleaning items.

Build Your Own Kit

If you do not have a kit, you can build kids for your home, vehicle, workplace, and other frequently visited places. The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) has a list of basic emergency supplies (PDF) for your family to use as a reference. If you have a smartphone, you can use the interactive emergency kit list from the free FEMA app. This app provides information on emergency preparedness for the whole family. Talk to your parents, spouse, children, and other family members today about preparing for the next emergency situation in your area.

Derecho

During warmer months, a wind storm or "derecho" can occur. Along with thunderstorms, a derecho can create an emergency situation with little warning. This severe weather can bring downed trees, power outages, and road closures. If you remain alert and informed, you can take steps to protect yourself and your family before, during, and after wind storms and other heat events. Remember that flying debris can injury or kill people during a wind storm, so it is usually a good idea to stay indoors during a wind storm in your area. 

If you need to go outside for any reason during a wind storm, follow instructions from emergency workers and officials, including road closure signs.