Emergency preparedness resources
Ready Virginia is a coordinated effort to provide vital preparedness information to Virginians.
This collaborative effort unites state government agencies
with private sector and local government partners in a statewide public education effort to prepare Virginians for all hazards, including natural disasters and potential terrorist attacks. Ready Virginia encourages citizens to prepare for emergencies
by taking three easy steps: get an
emergency supply kit, make an emergency plan and stay informed about the hazards that could impact Virginia.
Disaster planning
The
Virginia Department of Emergency Management (VDEM) has information on how to plan for, prepare for and handle natural and man-made disasters. For more information on specific situations,
see the following links:
The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) works to reduce the loss of life due to disaster. FEMA helps citizens prepare for imminent or potential disasters and then assists in cleanup after a disaster
has happened. Know what to do before a disaster strikes by visiting the following links:
The aftermath of a disaster can be devastating. There are often people who are homeless, have lost most of their valuables and do not know where to turn. There are a number of grants and assistance programs that can help during this time of need.
If you would like to help those who have been affected by a disaster, there are volunteer opportunities.
Unfortunately, there will be people who try to take advantage of disaster
outreach and assistance. If you know of anyone falsely claiming losses during a disaster, please visit the Office of the Inspector General's page for information on how to help stop the fraud.
Emergency alert system radio stations
Be familiar with the Emergency Alert System radio station near you. In the event of an emergency, tune to that station for information.
- WFNR-AM, 710
- WROV-FM, 96.3
- WRVL-FM, 88.3
- WSLQ-FM, 99.1
- WVTF-FM, 89.1
You may also sign up for alerts by cell phone, e-mail or text message from the County, Christiansburg, and Blacksburg via Citizens Alert. Virginia Tech also has a notification
system.
Publications
The FEMA publication You Ready? A Guide For Citizen Preparedness, is a comprehensive guide with a step-by-step approach to getting
informed about local emergency plans, identifying hazards that affect local areas, and developing and maintaining an emergency communications plan and disaster supplies kit. Other topics covered include evacuation, emergency public shelters, terrorism
threats, animals in disaster, and information specific to people with disabilities. Are You Ready? also provides in-depth information on specific hazards, including what to do before, during and after each hazard.
Websites for kids
To
have your children take an active interest in emergency preparedness, mitigation and safety, visit these websites:
- The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) website Ready Kids includes information for kids to learn about disasters, how to prepare and how to reduce their impact in a fun and interactive way.
- The DHS United States Fire Administration also has a website for kids to learn about fire prevention and what everyone should do to be safer at home, USFA's Kids Page.
- The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration has designed fun activities for kids to explore the planet they live on, including hazardous weather. These activities are linked from the NOAA education webpage and are tailored for children grades K-5 and for grades 6-12.
- Code Red Rover is the Home Safety Council's website for children that introduces them to Rover, the Home Safety Hound, and delivers interactive games and puzzles to assist children
in identifying dangers in and around the home.
Websites for parents and teachers
There are training materials available for teachers to integrate safety messages in the classroom. Visit these websites and ask your children's teacher or school administrator about teaching
these programs in your school district.
Teaching Kids about Emergency PreparednessThe American Red Cross works closely with schools and youth-serving organizations to provide emergency preparedness education to young people to build resilience in communities across the country and abroad. These age-appropriate preparedness materials include engaging activities and easy action steps that youth will find both fun and effective.
CDC - Emergency Preparedness and ResponseYour online source for credible health information. Topics include: Bioterrorism, chemical and radiation emergencies, mass casualties, natural
disasters and severe weather and recent outbreaks and incidents.