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IDHS > About IDHS > Family Preparedness > getprepared getprepared

Your Preparedness Makes the Difference!

Family Preparedness (view)

Get a Kit: Could you and your family survive after a major disaster without access to transportation, or major utilities?  What will you eat and drink, and what will you use for light?  Do you have enough essential medications, baby formula, and other special needs items to last at least three days?  Is your first aid kit replenished?

Make a plan: Do you and your family members all know how to escape if your home catches fire, or where to go if a tornado is threatening your area?  How you will communicate and where will your family reunite if you are separated during an emergency?  What you will do if you child’s school or daycare facility closes.  If you must evacuate during a flash flood or other disaster, do you know the best routes?

Be Informed: Is your home or office located in a flood plain or are you downstream from a major dam?  Will you know if a severe thunderstorm is headed your way in the middle of the night?  What is the difference between a tornado WATCH and a WARNING?  Do you know which neighbors with small children, or other special needs family members might need help during a natural or manmade disaster?

Get Involved: Once you and your family are prepared for emergency situations, go out and teach someone about preparedness. Business and school officials should incorporate emergency plans into employee handbooks and standard curriculums. Families should have preparedness meetings and form networks.

Prepare for H1N1

The Influenza A (H1N1) virus outbreak is an evolving situation and it is important for Hoosiers to think proactively about the situation should it become more severe. Ask your employer if working from home is a reasonable option if you or your child becomes ill.  Stay in contact with school officials and always have a “Plan B” in case regular childcare facilities are closed.
H1N1 Preparedness (view)

  • A message from Executive Director of the Indiana Department of Homeland Security
    Run Time 10:42 (view)

Prepare for Severe Weather

Severe weather in Indiana may hit without warning in the form of heavy rains, strong winds, hail, lightning, or tornados. Even if they last only a few minutes, these storms have the strength and power to cause a great amount of damage.  Know where your flashlight is and where to go during a tornado.  Stay in your vehicle during lightning storms, but get out during tornados.  Never try to drive through rushing water.
Severe Weather Preparedness (view)

Prepare for an Earthquake

Earthquakes may strike suddenly, without warning at any time of the day or night. Identifying potential hazards ahead of time and advance planning can save lives and significantly reduce injuries and property damage. Drop, Cover, and Hold on. Know how to turn off gas, electricity, and water utilities. Beware of aftershocks.
Earthquake Preparedness (view)

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