“Emergency preparedness” is a term used to describe a plan to prepare you in case of an emergency. Regardless of your gender, race, or disability, planning for emergencies such as hurricanes, tornadoes, fires, or terrorist attacks is an important part of being responsible. People with disabilities may have special needs to consider in an emergency. If you have a disability, it may require extra planning to handle an emergency.

This tool kit is a guide to help you prepare for an emergency. The tools and checklists in this handbook can be used as a step-by-step guide to making an emergency plan.

Making an emergency plan and putting together your emergency tool kit is a big job. Your plan may include family, friends, neighbors, and organizations that can support you and help you make decisions. Your tool kit does not have to be perfect, but it is important to plan ahead.

Because everyone’s situation is different, not all subjects of emergency preparedness are covered in this guide. Think about your personal needs and plan ahead for what you will need to stay safe in an emergency.

Remember: Some plan is better than no plan. You can do it!

Grant funded by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention Grant # GCDRC0164

Stephen B. Thacker CDC Library collection

GCDRC0164