Emergency Preparedness
Being prepared can save lives. The Rochester Volunteer Fire Company encourages every household and business in our community to take simple steps today to prepare for tomorrow’s emergencies. Below are key resources and checklists to help you stay safe.
🧰 Build an Emergency Kit
- 3 days of food and water per person
- Battery-powered or hand-crank radio
- Flashlight and extra batteries
- First aid kit
- Medications
- Cell phone charger/power bank
- Copies of important documents
- Tools (multi-tool, wrench for utilities)
- Local maps
💡 Tip: Keep a smaller version of your emergency kit in your car and at work.
👨👩👧 Make a Family Emergency Plan
- Designate two meeting places (local and out-of-town)
- Know escape routes from your home and neighborhood
- Create a contact list of family members, schools, and medical facilities
- Plan for pets (food, crates, meds)
- Share the plan with all household members
🔗 Download Family Plan Templates from Ready.gov
⚠️ Know Your Hazards
| Hazard | Tips |
|---|---|
| Severe Storms | Secure outdoor items, stay indoors, charge devices |
| Tornadoes | Identify safe shelter (basement/interior room) |
| Winter Weather | Stock blankets, shovels, heating alternatives |
| House Fires | Install smoke alarms, create escape plans |
| Flooding | Keep valuables off basement floors, know flood risk |
📢 Emergency Alerts & Communication
- Sign up for local alerts from Racine County and Wisconsin Emergency Management
🔗 Wisconsin Alerts – dma.wi.gov - Follow us on Facebook for real-time notifications
- Use mobile apps like NOAA Weather Radio and FEMA Alerts
🧩 Special Considerations
- Older adults & people with disabilities: Maintain medical supplies and mobility devices
- Children: Practice drills with them; include comfort items in kits
- Pets: Include food, water, leash, ID, and carrier in your emergency kit
📚 Resources
- 🔗 Ready.gov
- 🔗 Wisconsin Emergency Management
- 🔗 American Red Cross – Disaster Preparedness
- 🔗 Racine County Emergency Management
📄 Download our Emergency Preparedness Guide to help keep your family safe and ready.