Despite events like Hurricanes Katrina and Rita and public awareness efforts, Americans remain largely unprepared for emergencies. A September 2006 poll conducted by the Mailman School of Public Health at Columbia University found that only 31 percent of Americans have a basic emergency plan. The survey also noted that "92 percent of Americans have at least one reason why they would not evacuate immediately if ordered to do so. "The most commonly cited reason for not evacuating was care for a dependent, vulnerable person, or pet.

The brochure includes pictures that help explain what supplies should be gathered and a place to write down information for the family’s communication plan such as meeting places, an out-of-state contact and cell phone numbers. Important local, state and federal phone numbers and websites are included as well. You can download the brochure as well as a helpful checklist below.

Helpful Documents & Links

Emergency Preparedness Brochure [PDF 1MB PDF]
Emergency Preparedness Checklist [PDF]
Family Disaster Plan from Ready.gov
Emergency Planning for Pets from Ready.gov
Prepare. Plan. Stay Informed at Ready.gov

Medical Reserve Corps(MRC)Information

Medical Reserve Corps of Massachusetts (What is the MRC?)
Become an MRC volunteer
MRC upcoming events and trainings

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