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If you are in immediate danger, call 911. This page is general guidance; follow local authorities.

How much time do you have?

Choose your situation — we'll show you exactly what to do.

It's coming — get ready

You have some time. Use it well.

Work through these before the storm arrives. The order matters.

  1. 1

    Review your emergency plan

    Routes, assembly points, what to take.

  2. 2

    Take your 8 photos — inside & out

    All 4 sides, 4 corners, plus a room-by-room walkthrough. For your claim.

  3. 3

    Secure your property

    Reinforce windows/doors, bring in furniture, unplug equipment (leave fridges on unless flooding).

  4. 4

    Gather supplies & protect valuables

    Food, water, meds, documents, cash. Valuables in waterproof containers.

  5. 5

    Prepare vehicles & people

    Fuel up, check tires. Plan for kids, elderly, disabled & pets.

Leave now

Go. Don't wait. Take these steps as you leave.

Follow official evacuation orders first. If you're told to go, go.

  1. 1

    Find an open shelter

    Use the FEMA app for open shelters near you.

  2. 2

    Grab your kit and your pets

    Emergency kit, meds, pet supplies & records. Take your pets with you.

  3. 3

    Leave early, follow your route

    Watch for flooding, washed-out roads, downed power lines.

  4. 4

    Lock up & tell someone

    Close & lock doors/windows. Tell family, friends & neighbors where you're going.

  5. 5

    Stay informed & shareable

    FEMA/Red Cross apps, NOAA radio. Use What3Words to share your exact location.

In an emergency, call 911.

This page is for general information only — follow guidance from local authorities and emergency services.

Call 911 now

Not sure what to do? Ask Disaster AIDvisor.

Download the app — ask a question, get instant guidance.

More about Disaster AIDvisor

Go deeper

The guide for the first hours and days.

One complete guide for responding, with the right tools built in. Read it when you have a moment.

Contractor fraud spikes immediately after disasters. Protect yourself.

Don't sign anything from anyone who knocks on your door. Use a contractor you already know and trust, or check a new one with our guide first.

After the immediate danger

When the danger has passed and you're ready to rebuild

Go to the Recover hub