Preparing

At its most basic, preparing for a national security incident is no different than preparing for a natural disaster. Due to the potential for significant interruptions to the nation's infrastructure, you should have sufficient resources on hand to allow you to be self-supporting for at least 72 hours. View more details on how to prepare a 72-Hour Disaster Kit.

What Can You & Your Family Do to Stay Safe?

• Stay alert and aware. Maintain emergency preparedness.
• Maintain close contact with family and neighbors to ensure their safety and emotional welfare.
• Follow any travel warnings that are in place.
• Be alert to suspicious activity.
• Conditions are likely to change with little or no notice. National and local news media will have increased coverage of any evolving situations. Access to public buildings and government facilities will be restricted. Public gatherings may be postponed.
• Continue normal activities but expect delays, baggage searches, and restrictions as a result of heightened security at public facilities.
• Continue to monitor Emergency Alert System (EAS) stations in your area and listen to the NOAA All Hazards Weather Radio.
• Stop the spread of rumors by not sharing unsubstantiated information.
• Develop alternate routes to and from work or school and practice them.
• Fill your gas tank regularly.
• Review emergency plans at work, school, and public places you regularly visit.
• Call 911 if you see suspicious persons taking photographs of critical facilities, asking detailed questions about physical security, or dressed inappropriately for weather conditions.
• Review your disaster plans and discuss them in detail with your family.
• Be prepared to evacuate or to take shelter.
• Check your family disaster supply kit and update as necessary.
• Review and update phone numbers and email addresses in your emergency notification plan.
• Take advantage of training opportunities available through your local Red Cross to refresh your first aid knowledge.
• Continue to provide volunteer services in your community, but contact the agency to determine their needs before volunteering.

More Information

Additional information on threat levels and protective actions to take can be obtained from the Department of Homeland Security or Ready.gov.