Surviving a Disaster

General Information

Natural and man-made disasters often strike with little or no warning and with effects that are unpredictable. While most communities are prepared for even large-scale emergencies, disasters can temporarily overwhelm the capability of emergency services and local support organizations to respond quickly and effectively for a significant period of time.

Plan Ahead

Disaster events usually result in many separate incidents that threaten personal injury, damage to our homes, and the disruption of critical services. Individuals and organizations who fail to plan and prepare for disasters are most vulnerable in the first few hours following the event and can remain so for up to several days without assistance.

Families Who Survive Disasters

Individuals who survive a disaster must often face the loss of their homes and other property. Family members and friends may be separated and unable to communicate or even locate one another. Children, seniors, and disabled individuals are often most affected. Businesses may be affected, resulting in a loss of income on top of the other financial stresses. Disaster aid may be slow in coming and fall short of actual needs. Families who plan ahead are in a better position to survive and recover in the aftermath of disasters.

Make a Plan, Get a Kit, Be Informed & Volunteer

For information and resources for your family or business, go to Ready Georgia or contact your local Red Cross Chapter for information on how to plan and prepare for the unthinkable events that may occur in your family's future.