Emergency Preparedness

Jump to: Accessible Emergency Information | Text to 9-1-1

Those who are prepared for emergencies recover faster and can help others who also may be affected. Every family and business can take just a few simple steps to prepare and protect your family and your assets:

• Learn how to prepare for emergencies and disasters by watching this PowerPoint training program. Watch PPT Emergency Preparedness (PDF)
• Store at least a three-day supply of water (one gallon per day per person) and food. The rule of thumb is to store one gallon of water per person per day. Be sure to have canned and packaged food on hand that does not need electricity to store or prepare, in case the power is out. Include a can opener, disposable dinnerware, paper towels, garbage bags, and bathroom tissue.
• Few of us are able to store extra supplies, so make a list of the needed items and keep that in your “To Go” bag. Having a list may ensure you don’t forget anything if you must pack in a hurry. Include cash, medicines, eyeglasses, contact lenses and cleaner, and personal care items. Cell phones and chargers, extra batteries (hearing aids, etc.).
• Get a battery-powered and/or hand-crank radio. To stay informed if the power is out, you’ll need a radio to hear instructions from local officials. Make sure you have extra batteries, and choose one with a NOAA Weather Band so you’ll get weather information direct from the National Weather Service.
• The following links provide additional emergency preparedness information:
  • https://www.vaemergency.gov
  • https://ready.gov
  • http://www.accessibleemergencyinfo.com/

Accessible Emergency Information

This is a link to signed, large print, and Braille printable documents on 18 different topics related to emergency preparedness. Provided by the NorthEast Texas Public Health District, these videos are provided free of charge.

http://www.accessibleemergencyinfo.com/

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Text to 9-1-1

The ability to send a text message to the nearest 9-1-1 center is slowing becoming a reality. However, until all 9-1-1 centers are able to accept text messages, it is always best to have an alternative means

If a particular 9-1-1 center is unable to accept a text, a “bounce-back” message will be sent from the center, informing you that you need to reach the 9-1-1 center by another means.

All four major wireless providers (Verizon, AT&T, Sprint, & T-Mobile) now offer the service, but current availability depends on the area of the state where you live.

You can find a full list of Text to 9-1-1 Resources at NG9-1-1 Dashboard.

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