Personal Preparedness
Individual preparedness makes neighborhoods more resilient and helps people support one another if normal services are disrupted by an emergency.
Emergency Plans and Supply Kits
Prepare enough supplies to last you and the people you live with for at least three days. For budget-friendly preparedness:
- Start small. Add one or two items, like canned food or batteries, each time you shop. It adds up without breaking the bank!
- Use what you have. Check around your home for supplies you already own, like flashlights and blankets. Repurposing everyday items can save you money.
- Shop smart. Look for sales, discounts, and at dollar stores for emergency essentials. You can find essentials like first-aid supplies and non-perishable foods at affordable prices.
Visit bit.ly/PHLEmergencyPlanning for a full list of what to include in your kit and how to make your own emergency plan.
If you take medication:
- Always have at least a one-week supply of medications.
- Write down the medications that you and your family members take.
- Use a Health Information Card to track medications, medical equipment, healthcare providers, and important contacts.
- Print a Health Information Card or order one through the mail.
- Keep the Health Information Card in your wallet, purse, or another safe place.
Look Out for Others
To prepare for emergencies, call or check on friends, family or neighbors who are older, live alone, are homebound, or have chronic medical conditions or disabilities that could make it harder to cope.
Check to see that they have emergency supplies, extra medications, and anything they need to stay safe and healthy.
Prepare Your Pets
- Include your pets in your family’s emergency plan.
- Write down the contact information for your pet’s vet.
- Keep copies of pet registration and/or adoption paperwork.
- Keep a photo of you with your pet to show you are the owner in case you are separated.
- Gather emergency supplies for your pet and store items in a sturdy container that can be carried easily.
- Gather supplies based on your pet’s needs.
- Try to have a 14-day supply of food and water (don’t forget bowls!)
Learn more about preparing your pets for emergencies.
Stay Connected to Stay Informed!
Get free emergency or weather alerts from the City of Philadelphia.
- Text READYPHILA to 888-777 or visit www.phila.gov/OEM to sign up for free alerts.
- Alerts are available in eleven languages: English, French, Arabic, Russian, Spanish, Vietnamese, Simplified Chinese, Haitian Creole, Portuguese, Swahili, and American Sign Language.
Join the Community Response Partner Network (CRPN) for updates on severe storms and other public health emergencies.