Disaster Fact Sheets and Backgrounders

Disasters take many forms. They're caused by gale force winds, sudden floods, releases of deadly chemicals, fire, ice, even upheavals of the earth itself. When disaster strikes, the best protection is knowing what to do.

To find out more about disasters and steps you can take to prepare, select a disaster or other topic below for further information. To find out detailed information about your community's disaster plans, call your local office of emergency services.

Preparing for Common Disasters

Natural Disasters

Technological Disasters

It is important to consider the plight of animals during disasters. For more information on this subject, visit the Animals and Emergencies Section under Preparation and Prevention.