There are well-developed and well-rehearsed emergency response plans at all levels of government. At the core of this effort is citizen preparedness. In this website, the DuPage County Health Department provides suggestions for you to better respond. You and your family can plan, prepare, practice, and protect each other.

If a disaster strikes, relief workers may not be able to reach everyone immediately. You might be asked to evacuate your home or may need to "shelter-in-place." It is important that you and your family know what to do during different types of emergencies. By planning and practicing, you and your family will be more prepared if an emergency occurs. Planning Guides and additional information are at: www.Ready.gov

Once you are informed about the potential emergencies in DuPage County, your next step is to make a plan to deal with each emergency. Remember that it is not necessary to make one plan for each kind of emergency. One or two well thought out plans can generally be effective during any situation.

Remember communications. During a crisis, you will want to know where your loved ones are, and if they are safe. Be sure to include several ways to contact the people who are important to you. An out of town family contact may be helpful if the utilities in your area are damaged.