Arizona's hot, dry climate is perfect for wildfires. No matter where you live, a wildfire could happen at any time. You stand a better chance of protecting your family and property if you are practiced on how to react.

BE prepared

Before a fire, there are things you can do to prepare.  If asked to evacuate, put your plans into practice:

·          Turn off gas.

·          Leave garden tools attached to outside faucets to assist fire fighters if necessary.

·          Drive with your headlights on so other evacuees can see you through any smoke.

·          Follow the directions of law enforcement.

Protecting your home and create defendable space with landscaping:

·          Remove all fuels within your defensible space.

·          Introduce native vegetation.

·          Space trees 10 feet apart, and prune branches that hang below 6 feet from the ground.

·          Remove dead or dying trees and shrubs.

·          Maintain your irrigation system.

·          Clear your roof, gutters and eaves of debris.

·          Trim branches so they do not extend over your roof or chimney.

·          Move firewood and storage tanks 50 feet from your home.

Build or retrofit your home with non-flammable materials

·          Use non-combustible roofing materials and install spark arresters in chimneys.

·          Cover exterior walls with fire resistant materials like stucco, stone or brick (vinyl siding can melt).

·          Use double-paned or tempered glass for exterior windows.

·          Make sure your home's address can be seen from the street.

BE curious

For more information on wildfire preparedness, visit:

 

·          Just in Case Arizona

 

·          Ready.gov

 

·          Centers for Disease Control and Prevention

 

·          Arizona State Forestry Division

 

·          Arizona Firewise

Winter weather in Arizona can be harsh and unforgiving.  If you're not prepared, it can also be deadly. Knowing what to do in winter weather can help keep everyone warm and safe.

BE prepared

Listen to your radio, television, or National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) weather radio for reports and emergency information.

• Eat regularly and drink plenty of fluids.  Avoid caffeine and alcohol.
• Avoid overexertion when shoveling snow:
• Watch for signs of frostbite on fingers, toes, ear lobes and the tip of the nose:
• Watch for signs of hypothermia.
• If necessary, conserve fuel by keeping your home slightly cooler than normal.
• Maintain ventilation when using kerosene heaters to avoid build-up of toxic fumes.
• Do not drive unless it’s absolutely necessary.

BE informed

 

If a blizzard traps you in the car, keep these guidelines in mind:

• Pull off the highway.
• Stay in your vehicle. Rescuers are most likely to find you there.
• Run the engine and heater about 10 minutes each hour to keep warm.
• Exercise to maintain body heat, but avoid overexertion.
• Drink fluids to avoid dehydration.
• Balance electrical energy needs (e.g., lights, heat and radio) with supply.
• Turn on the inside light at night so rescuers can see you.
• If stranded in a remote area, signal air rescue crews.
• Leave the car and proceed on foot – only if necessary - once the blizzard passes.

BE curious

For more information on severe winter weather preparedness, visit

 

·          Just in Case Arizona

 

·          Ready.gov

 

·          Centers for Disease Control and Prevention

 

·          National Weather Service

Every part of the continental United States is at risk for tornados.  These violent storms can produce winds of up to 300 mph and leave damage trails of 1 mile wide and 50 miles long.

BE prepared

Before a tornado, there are several things you can do to protect yourself and your family:

·          Listen to NOAA Weather Radio or other broadcast news for the latest information.

·          Look for approaching storms on the horizon.

·          Be aware of the danger signs:

1.     A dark, often greenish sky

2.     Large hail

3.      A large, dark rotating cloud (funnel-shaped)

4.     A loud roar, similar to a freight train

·          Locate the safest place to take shelter.

BE informed

If you are inside a vehicle, trailer or mobile home:

·          Get out and go to the lowest floor of a nearby building or storm shelter.

·          Do not stay in a mobile home.  They offer little protection, even when tied down.

If you are outside with no shelter:

·          Lie flat in a nearby ditch or depression.

·          Do not go under an overpass or bridge.

·          Never try to outrun a tornado in urban or congested areas.

·          Watch for flying debris.

BE curious

For more information on tornado preparedness, visit:

 

·          Just in Case Arizona

 

·          Ready.gov

 

·          Centers for Disease Control and Prevention

Arizona is home to many weather dangers, including regular-occurring thunderstorms.  Thunderstorms can bring high winds, heavy rains and lightning; however, there are ways to stay safe when these storms hit.

BE prepared

 

If a thunderstorm is likely in your area, follow these simple tips:

·          Postpone outdoor activities.

·          Get inside a home, building or hardtop automobile.

·          Secure outdoor objects that could blow away or cause damage.

·          Shutter windows and secure outside doors.

·          Do not shower or bathe.  Plumbing and bathroom fixtures can conduct electricity.

·          Use a corded telephone only for emergencies.  Cordless and cellular telephones are safe to use.

·          Unplug appliances and other electrical items and turn off air conditioners.

·          Use battery-operated or hand-crank NOAA Weather Radio for updates from local officials.

 

BE informed

If You Are Outdoors

·          In a forest, seek shelter in a low area under a thick growth of small trees.  Avoid the tallest trees.

·          In an open area, go to a low place like a ravine or valley, but watch for flooding.

·          On open water, get to land and find shelter.

·          If you feel your hair stand on end, a lightning strike is about to happen:

1.     Squat low but don't lie down.

2.     Place your hands over your ears, and head between your knees.

During a storm, avoid hazardous areas.

• Natural lightning rods such as a tall, isolated tree in an open area
• Hilltops, open fields, the beach or a boat on the water
• Isolated sheds or other small structures in open areas
• Anything metal - farm equipment, motorcycles, golf carts, golf clubs or bicycles

BE curious

For more information on thunderstorm preparedness, visit:

 

·          Just in Case Arizona

 

·          Ready.gov

Terrorism is the use of force, fear and/or violence by a person or group to intimidate or coerce societies or governments.  Terrorism often has political or ideological motives. These attacks can take many forms and could happen anytime and in any place.

 

BE informed

 

Today, we face serious terrorist threats.  It’s important to know the various types of threats and how to react should an attack take place.

• Biological Threat: <INSERT LINK TO THREAT PAGE>
  The deliberate release of germs or other harmful substances that can cause illness.
• Chemical Attack: <INSERT LINK TO THREAT PAGE>
  The deliberate release of toxic gases, liquids or solids that can poison people and the environment
• Explosions: <INSERT LINK TO THREAT PAGE>
  The use of explosions to cause mortal injury or destruction of property.
• Nuclear Blast: <INSERT LINK TO THREAT PAGE>
  The deliberate detonation of a nuclear device resulting in intense light, heat, radiation and collateral damage
• Radiation: <INSERT LINK TO THREAT PAGE>
  The spread of harmful radiation through an explosion such as a "dirty bomb.”

If a terrorist attack occurs, you will be given instructions from public officials. In the meantime, there are a variety of steps you can take to keep your family safe.  To learn more about each of the situations above, click on related links.

BE curious

For additional information on preparing for terrorist attacks, visit:

·          Just in Case Arizona

A radiation threat entails exposure to radiation as the result of an accident or terrorist attack.  The attack may take the form of a "dirty bomb,” a common explosive that spreads radioactive material over an area.  In either situation, the presence of radiation will be unknown until trained personnel with special equipment can identify and assess the danger.

BE informed

·          When outside, cover your nose and mouth and get into a nearby building.

·          If inside, check your building for damage or find better shelter, close windows and doors, and turn off heating, cooling and ventilation systems.

·          If you may have been exposed to radiation, quickly remove your clothes and wash all exposed parts of your body with lots of soap and lukewarm water to move any contamination.

·          Shield yourself from radioactive sources with a thick piece of material.

·          Distance yourself from the radiation source or blast site.

·          Reduce the time you are exposed to radiation to reduce your risk.

BE curious

For additional information on preparing for radiation, visit:

 

·          Just in Case Arizona

 

·          Ready.gov

 

·          Centers for Disease Control and Prevention

Short-term power outages and blackouts are inconvenient.  In some cases these outages can be life threatening. By preparing for outages in advance, you'll have a plan to use when the power goes out.

BE prepared

Make a "blackout kit" that includes the following supplies:

• Flashlight w/ extra batteries
• Portable, battery-powered radio or TV
• Water (at least 1 gallon per person, per day)
• Non-perishable foods

BE informed

Here are a few helpful tips on how to reduce the dangers of a power outage:

·          Only use a flashlight for emergency lighting; do not use candles.

·          Turn off all electrical equipment that was on when the power failed.

·          Keep your refrigerator and freezer closed to keep contents cold.

·          Do not run a generator inside your home or garage.

·          Do not connect a generator to a home's electrical system.

·          If you use a generator, connect the equipment you want to power directly to the generator.

·          Keep a battery-powered or hand-crank radio handy to get the latest news.

In summer, a power outage can cut electricity to air conditioners and fans.  Some can also stop water treatment plants, making potable water in short supply.  In the event of a summer power outage:

·          Check on family or neighbors who may not be mobile.

·          Drink plenty of water.

·          Wear light clothing.

·          Move to areas with generated power (e.g., malls and shelters)

·          Watch for heat-related illnesses, especially in children, the elderly and disabled.

BE curious

For more information, visit:

 

·          Just in Case Arizona

 

·          Ready.gov

 

·          Centers for Disease Control and Prevention

A pandemic is a global disease outbreak usually caused by a new version of a virus, like influenza, that affects humans.  An outbreak could require changes in social behavior that may last for some time.

BE prepared

 

Individuals, businesses and communities can take steps now to lessen the effects of a future pandemic.  The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services suggests citizens do the following:

·          Talk with local public health officials and care providers about the threat of a pandemic and recommended prevention and control actions.

·          Adopt communitywide practices that encourage sick employees/students to stay home. Think about how businesses, schools, etc., can function with a minimal number of healthy individuals.

·          Practice good health habits: eat right, exercise daily and get plenty of rest.

·          Wash hands with warm water and soap.

·          Cover coughs and sneezes with the crook of your arm.  Do not use your hands.

·          Stay away from groups of people, especially if you are ill.

·          Stay informed about the outbreak and be prepared to follow new instructions.

BE curious

For more information on preparing for and responding to a flu pandemic, visit:

 

·          Just in Case Arizona

 

·          Ready.gov

 

·          Centers for Disease Control and Prevention

 

·          Pandemicflu.gov

A nuclear blast is an explosion with intense light and heat, followed by a damaging pressure wave and widespread dispersion of radioactive material that can contaminate the air, water and landscapes for miles.

BE informed

If there is a nuclear blast:

·          Quickly assess the situation.

·          Get out of the area or get into a nearby building to limit your radiation exposure.

·          Shelter as far below ground as possible:

1.     Close windows and doors.

2.     Turn off all heating, cooling and ventilation systems.

·          Stay put and stay informed through TV, radio, or the Internet.

·          Shield yourself with a thick piece of material between you and any radioactive materials.

·          Stay away from the radiation source or blast to lower your exposure.

·          Cut the time you are exposed to radiation to reduce your risk.

·          Consider taking Potassium Iodide tablets to protect your thyroid gland from radiation damage.

BE curious

For additional information on preparing for a nuclear explosion, visit:

 

·          Just in Case Arizona

 

·          Ready.gov

 

·          Centers for Disease Control and Prevention

 

·          United States Nuclear Regulatory Commission

Heavy rains can turn Arizona terrain unstable and cause occasional land and mudslides. Debris flows be incredibly destructive, but you can take precautions ahead of time.

BE prepared

 

Before a landslide or mudslide, you can take to improve your safety:

·          Do not build near steep slopes, mountain edges, drainage ways or natural erosion valleys.

·          Get a ground assessment of your property.

BE informed

 

There are often warning signs before a landslide.  Be mindful of visible and unseen changes, including:

• Changes occur in your landscape.
• Outside walls, walks or stairs begin pulling away from the building.
• Slowly widening cracks in the ground or on paved areas.
• Underground utility lines break.
• Bulging ground appears at the base of a slope.
• Water breaks through the ground surface in new locations.
• Fences, retaining walls, utility poles or trees tilt or move.
• Faint rumbling sounds that are noticed and increase in volume.
• Collapsed pavement, mud, fallen rocks, etc. on roadside embankments.

After the slide has passed, there are several safety guidelines to keep in mind:

·          Stay away from the slide area.

·          Without entering the area, check for injured and trapped persons near the slide.

·          Beware of unseen damage.

·          Replant damaged ground as soon as possible.

·          Do not enter the area until you have been told to do so by officials.

BE curious

For additional information on preparing for a landslide or mudslide, visit:

 

·          Just in Case Arizona

 

·          Ready.gov

 

·          Centers for Disease Control and Prevention

Flooding and Flash Floods are a real danger in Arizona.  Every year, people are injured; some lose their lives because they are taken off guard by storms and rushing floodwaters.

BE prepared

There are tips you can apply before the next storm to keep family and property safe from floodwaters:

·          Do not build in a floodplain unless you elevate and reinforce your home.

·          Elevate the furnace, water heater and electric panel if susceptible to flooding.

·          Install "check valves" in sewer traps to prevent floodwater from drain back-ups.

·          Construct barriers or stack sandbags to stop floodwater from entering buildings.

·          Seal basement walls with waterproofing compounds to avoid seepage.

BE informed

 

Flash floods can occur in Arizona with no rain in sight.  A storm that's miles away can produce flash flooding.

·          Know where flash flooding has occurred; be cautious in areas prone to flooding.

·          If you must evacuate, secure your home and move essentials to an upper floor.

·          Turn off utilities at the main switches or valves if asked to do so.

·          Do not walk through moving water; instead, choose a route with still water if at all possible.

Many injuries take place after a flood. These tips will help keep your family safe in the aftermath:

·          Stay away from power lines and electrical wires.

·          Have your electricity turned off by the power company.

·          Beware of animals, especially snakes. 

·          Look before you step.  After a flood, the ground and floors are covered with debris

·          Wait before entering a structure damaged by flooding.

·          Do not drive into flooded areas.

·          If floodwaters rise around your car, abandon it and move to higher ground.

BE curious

For more information on thunderstorm preparedness, visit:

·          Just in Case Arizona

 

·          Ready.gov

 

·          Centers for Disease Control and Prevention

 

·          National Weather Service

Arizona has some of the highest temperatures in the country.  The dangers of extreme heat are real and can be deadly if you don't respond properly.

BE prepared

There are steps you can take to make your home a better place to stay during the hottest temperature:

·          Install window air conditioners snugly.

 

·          Check air conditioning ducts for proper insulation.

·          Install window reflectors, such as aluminum foil-covered cardboard, between windows and drapes to reflect heat outside.

·          Weather-strip doors and sills to keep cool air in.

·          Cover windows that receive morning or afternoon sun with drapes, shades, awnings or louvers.

·          Keep storm windows up all year.

BE informed

 

Here are some guidelines on how to best handle extreme heat:

·          Stay indoors as much as possible and limit exposure to the sun.

·          Stay on the lowest floor out of the sun if air conditioning is not available.

·          Spend the warmest part of the day in public buildings.

·          Eat well-balanced, light and regular meals and avoid salt tablets, unless directed.

·          Drink plenty of water.

·          Limit your intake of alcoholic beverages.

·          Dress in baggy, lightweight and light-colored clothes that cover as much skin as possible.

·          Protect your face and head by wearing a wide-brimmed hat.

·          Check on family, friends and neighbors who are alone and do not have air conditioning.

·          Never leave children or pets alone in closed vehicles.

·          Avoid hard physical work during the warmest part of the day.

BE curious

 

For more information on tornado preparedness, visit:

 

·          Just in Case Arizona

 

·          Ready.gov

 

·          Centers for Disease Control and Prevention

 

·          National Weather Service

 

Explosions can happen for a variety of reasons, including a terrorist attack.  How you react in the seconds and minutes immediately after can save your life.

BE informed

If there is an explosion:

·          Exit the building.

·          Do not use elevators.

·          Check for fire and other hazards; check doors for heat before opening them.

·          If you can't leave, take shelter under a desk, sturdy table, or other shielding object or furniture.

If there is a fire:

·          Exit the building immediately.

·          Crawl low to the ground if there is smoke.

·          Use a wet cloth to cover your nose and mouth.

·          Do not open a hot door; instead, find another exit.

·          If you catch fire, drop and roll to put it out.

·          If you are at home, go to your family's meeting place.

·          Account for family members and supervise small children.

·          Never go back into a burning building.

If you get trapped in debris:

·          Do not light a match.

·          Use a flashlight or whistle or tap a pipe or wall to signal rescuers.

·          Do not move or kick up dust.

·          Cover your nose and mouth with dense cotton fabric to filter the air.

BE curious

For additional information on preparing for explosions, visit:

·          Just in Case Arizona

 

·          Ready.gov

 

·          Centers for Disease Control and Prevention

Since 1850, Arizona has had more than 20 earthquakes with magnitudes of 5.0 or higher.  The U.S. Geological Survey reports that the largest earthquake on record in Arizona measured 5.6 in July 1959.

BE prepared

 

Before an earthquake hits, there are things you can do to keep your family safe:

·          Secure heavy household appliances such as refrigerators, furnaces and gas appliances.

·          Place large or heavy objects on lower shelves.

·          Fasten shelves, large mirrors and large pictures to the walls.

·          Brace top-heavy objects and anchor overhead lighting fixtures.

·          Locate safe spots (e.g., under a sturdy table or against an inside wall) in each room.

BE informed

If you are inside:

·          Head to a safe space in your home; crouch and cover your face and head with your arms.

·          Avoid glass, windows, outside doors, walls and anything that could fall.

·          Use a doorway for shelter only if it's close by and strongly supported.

·          Never use elevators.

If you are outside:

·          Stay outdoors and move away from buildings, streetlights and utility wires.

·          If you are in a moving car, stop quickly. Keep clear of buildings, trees, overpasses and utility wires.

If you are trapped under debris:

·          Do not light a match.

·          Do not move or kick up dust.

·          Cover your nose and mouth with a thick cotton cloth or part of your clothing.

BE curious

For more information on earthquakes and earthquake preparedness, visit:

 

·          Just in Case Arizona

 

·          Ready.gov

 

·          U.S. Geological Survey

 

·          Centers for Disease Control and Prevention

Dust storms (or haboobs) are unexpected, unpredictable and can sweep across Arizona's desert landscape at any time. You can endure these brief but powerful windstorms if you know how to react.

BE prepared

When a dust storm hits, there are several things you can do to protect your family:

If you are outside:

·          Seek shelter immediately.

·          Cover your eyes, nose and mouth.

·          Stay low and cover up.

If you are in a moving vehicle:

 

·          Pull off the roadway or reduce speed.

 

·          Douse the car lights.

 

·          Set the emergency brake.

BE curious

For more information about dust storm preparedness, visit:

·          Just in Case Arizona

A disease outbreak of a life-threatening disease can be scary. You can protect your family if you have all the facts.

BE prepared

Individuals, businesses and communities can take steps to lessen the effects of an outbreak. Follow the advice of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services:

·          Talk with local public health officials and care providers about the threat of a disease outbreak.  Recommend prevention and control actions.

·          Adopt community-wide practices that encourage sick employees/students to stay home.  Think about how businesses, schools, etc. can function with a minimal number of healthy individuals.

·          Practice good health habits: eat right, exercise daily and get plenty of rest.

·          Wash hands with warm water and soap.

·          Cover coughs and sneezes with the crook of your arm. Do not use your hands.

·          Avoid groups of people, especially if you are ill.

·          Stay informed about the outbreak.  Be prepared to follow new instructions.

BE curious

For more information on preparing for and responding to a disease outbreak, visit:

·          Just in Case Arizona

 

·          Centers for Disease Control and Prevention

A chemical emergency is the release of a toxic gas, liquid or solid that can poison people or the environment. This could come from anywhere chemicals are used or transported, or be the result of a possible terrorist attack.

BE prepared

In a chemical attack, quick actions mean all the difference.  Knowing what to look for and how to respond can help you stay safe.

1.     Try to define the chemical's source.

2.     Take immediate action and get to clean air.

3.     For a chemical threat in your building, avoid the contaminated area and leave right away.

4.     If you can't leave the building or find clean air safely:

·          Move as far away as possible.

·          Prepare to "shelter-in-place."

5.     If you are outside, decide the fastest way to find clean air:

·          Can you get out of the area?

BE informed

If you have watery eyes, stinging skin and are having trouble breathing, you may be suffering from chemical exposure.  Here is what you need to do:

• Remove and wash your clothing.
• Look for a hose, fountain or other water source; wash with soap, but do not scrub the chemical into your skin.
• Seek emergency medical care.

BE curious

For additional information on preparing for chemical threats, visit:

·          Just in Case Arizona

 

·          Ready.gov

 

·          Centers for Disease Control and Prevention

Carbon Monoxide (CO) is a colorless and almost odorless gas that can be poisonous to people and animals. It comes from the incomplete burning of solid, liquid or gas fuels in everything from home furnaces to automobiles to outdoor grills.

BE prepared

1.     Buy and install Carbon Monoxide alarms in boats, recreational vehicles, campers and every hallway near a sleeping area.

2.     Have a professional check all appliances to make sure they are installed correctly.

3.     Have the heating system, including chimneys and vents, inspected by a professional.

4.     Never burn charcoal or use portable camping equipment indoors.

5.     Turn off gas-powered motors in a garage area, even if door is open.

6.     Contact a professional to service or adjust fueled appliances.

7.     Never use gas appliances to heat your home unless they are specifically made to do so.

8.     Install and use an exhaust fan vented to outdoors over gas stoves.

9.     Ensure flues are set to the open position when using a fireplace.

BE informed

 

If your CO detector sounds, treat it as a real emergency and follow these steps:

1.     Reset the alarm.

2.     Check for symptoms. If they are present, get to fresh air right away. Open doors and windows to clear the gas.

3.     If the alarm continues to sound, call the local fire department.

4.     Call a professional to inspect your home for CO leaks.

BE curious

For more information about preparing for carbon monoxide, contact your local fire department and visit:

 

·          Just in Case Arizona

 

·          Centers for Disease Control and Prevention

BE curious

For additional information on preparing for biological threats, visit:

 

·         Just in Case Arizona

 

·         Ready.gov

 

·          Centers for Disease Control and Prevention

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