Emergency Preparedness Resources

Disasters can happen anytime—often when we least expect them. That’s why it’s so important to know what kinds of emergencies could happen in your area and how to keep yourself and your loved ones safe.

Some steps, like building an emergency kit and making a family plan, are helpful no matter what kind of emergency you are facing. But each type of disaster—like wildfires, earthquakes, or winter storms—may require different actions.

Know Your Risk
Learn about the types of emergencies that could happen where you live, work, or spend time. Understanding your local risks is the first step to staying safe.

Make a Plan
Think ahead about what you and your family would do if an emergency happens. Talk it through, write it down, and make sure everyone knows the plan.

Take Action
Start preparing today! Stay informed and take simple steps to protect yourself and your loved ones from the risks you might face.

Disasters can be tough for small businesses. In fact, the Small Business Administration says that up to 40% of small businesses don’t reopen after a major disaster. But with the right planning, you can improve your chances of bouncing back quickly.

The steps you take now matter. Creating a plan and involving your team can make all the difference. Preparedness isn’t just a solo effort—it’s a team sport!

How Business Owners and Managers Can Prepare

To help protect your employees and your business, here are a few key steps:

• Build an emergency supply kit with essentials like water, flashlights, batteries, and a first aid kit.
• Create and regularly update your emergency plan. Make sure it includes evacuation procedures and that your team knows what to do.
• Practice your plan. Run drills so everyone feels confident and ready.

Helpful Resources

Here are some trusted sites to help you get started:

• Business Disaster Guides – Insurance Institute for Business & Home Safety
• Emergency Preparedness and Response | Occupational Safety and Health Administration
• Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) – Emergency Preparedness
• Ready.gov – Business Preparedness
• Small Business Administration (SBA)
• American Red Cross – Business Safety
• Oregon Division of Financial Regulation (DFR)
• Oregon Department of Emergency Management – Business Preparedness

Emergencies can happen suddenly or build up over time—but either way, being prepared makes all the difference. Whether it’s a wildfire, winter storm, or power outage, there are simple steps you and your household can take to stay safe and confident.

Preparedness builds peace of mind. When you know what to do, you’re more likely to stay calm and take the right actions when it matters most.

Get Ready Together

• Make a plan that fits your household’s needs.
• Build an emergency kit with food, water, and supplies for at least a few days.
• Talk it through with everyone in your home—including kids, roommates, or anyone who depends on you.
• Connect with neighbors—preparedness is a team sport!

Helpful Resources

These trusted sites can help you get started:

• FEMA – Ready.gov
• American Red Cross – Cascades Region
• Oregon Division of Financial Regulation – Prepare Now
  • Home Insurance Resources
  • Financial Preparedness Tools
• Oregon Department of Emergency Management
  • Individual Preparedness
  • Preparedness Publications

When neighbors plan and prepare together, they help build a stronger, more resilient Bend. Whether it’s checking in during a storm, sharing resources, or helping each other evacuate safely, community connections make a big difference in an emergency.

Start by talking with your neighbors about how you can support one another. Make a plan, share contact info, and look out for those who may need extra help.

Be 2 Weeks Ready

Everyone should be prepared to be self-sufficient for at least two weeks after a disaster. Learn how to get started with Oregon’s 2 Weeks Ready program.

Interested in learning more about how to stay safe during emergencies? Whether you want to understand local hazards, evacuation planning, or how to create a family emergency plan, Bend Emergency Management is here to help.

We’re available to provide presentations or staff an information table at community events, meetings, or workshops. We’d love to support your event with helpful tips and resources.

To request a visit or presentation, please email:
REM@bendoregon.gov

Additional Community Resources

To explore Bend Fire & Rescue’s community programs: