Get Informed
Getting informed starts by learning about hazards that may strike our community, the risks that you face from these hazards, and our community's plan for warning and evacuation.
Genesee County's Comprehensive Emergency Management Plan
Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) Hazards Information
Emergency Alert System (EAS)
National Oceanic & Atmospheric Administration (NOAA)
National Emergency Management System
It is important to realize that every citizen in this country is part of a national emergency management system that is all about protection; protecting people and property from all types of hazards. Think of the national emergency response system as a pyramid with you, the citizen, forming the base of the structure. At this level you have a responsibility to protect yourself and your family by knowing what to do before, during, and after an event.
Before
- Know the risks and danger signs
- Purchase insurance, including flood insurance, which is not part of your homeowner's policy
- Develop plans for what to do
- Assemble a disaster supplies kit
- Volunteer to help others
- Put your plan into action
- Help others
- Follow the advice and guidance of officials in charge of the event
- Repair damaged property
- Take steps to prevent or reduce future loss
It is sometimes necessary to turn to others within the local community for help. The local level is the second tier of the pyramid, and is made up for paid employees and volunteers from the private and public sectors. These individuals are engaged in preventing emergencies from happening and in being prepared to respond if something does occur. Most emergencies are handled at the local level, which puts a tremendous responsibility on the community for taking care of its citizens.
If support and resources are needed beyond what the local level can provide, the community can request assistance from the state. The state may be able to provide supplemental resources such as money, equipment, and personnel to close the gap between what is needed and what is available at the local level.
At the top of the "pyramid" is the federal government. Support from the federal government can be requested by the state. The federal government provides resources to augment state and local efforts. These resources can be in the form of public educational materials, financial grants for equipment, training, exercises, personnel, and programs, grants and loans to respond to and recover from disasters, and technical assistance.
The national emergency management system is built on shared responsibilities and active participation at all levels. The whole system begins with YOU, the citizen, and your ability to follow good emergency management practices; whether at home, work, or other locations.