September 01, 2026

Emergency Preparedness

Are you and your loved ones prepared for a disaster? September is National Preparedness Month, a reminder to prepare now.

Know the Risks

Understanding the emergencies and hazards you may face is an important first step in preparing. Las Vegas residents may experience:

Earthquakes: Earthquakes can happen without warning and may cause damage to buildings, roads, utilities and other infrastructure. Know what to do to protect yourself during an earthquake. Learn more about earthquake preparedness here.
Flash flooding: Heavy rain can cause flash flooding in a short amount of time. Avoid flooded roads and never attempt to drive or walk through moving water.
Power outages: Extended power outages can disrupt communications, transportation, businesses and essential services. Plan for your household's needs if the power goes out. Learn more about preparing for power outages here.

Build a Kit

Emergency preparedness doesn't have to happen all at once. Build your emergency kit gradually by adding one item at a time.

Consider starting with essential supplies such as:

Water and nonperishable food to help your household get through an emergency.
Flashlights and batteries to provide light if the power goes out.
Medications and medical supplies that household members may need.
Chargers or portable power banks to keep phones and other essential devices powered.
Important documents and cash in case electronic payments or other services are unavailable.

Get the Southern Nevada Health District supply calendar here.

Know Your Resources

Knowing where to find information and assistance before an emergency happens can help you respond when you need it.

2-1-1: Connect with local community resources and assistance.
Emergency Alerts: Sign up to receive important emergency information by text.
Southern Nevada Preparedness App: Download the app to access preparedness information and resources to help you get ready.
Vial of Life: Make important medical information available to emergency responders when you may not be able to provide it yourself. Learn more here.

Prepare Together

Preparedness starts at home and extends to your neighborhood. Make a plan with your family, prepare for your pets and think about how you can help neighbors who may need additional support.

The city of Las Vegas offers Community Emergency Response Team (CERT) training, which teaches residents basic emergency response skills so they can better protect themselves, their families and their communities following a disaster.

Residents can also find volunteer opportunities to support their community.

Learn more about CERT and volunteers opportunities here.

Preparing for Older Adults and People with Specific Needs

Emergency preparedness is critical for anyone living in Las Vegas, but older adults and people with disabilities or other specific needs may require additional planning during an emergency.

It is also important to create a printed communications plan that includes important phone numbers, emergency contacts, and emergency meeting places. Be sure to keep the plan some place that is easily accessible – like on the refrigerator!

It is important to develop a plan in the event of an evacuation, especially if you are dependent on someone else for transportation.

Many seniors may be affected by a disability. FEMA recommends several tips for disabled people that includes having a support network of people, keeping a physical record of your medical history, and stocking supplies pertaining to your disability.

Prepare Now

You don't have to do everything at once. Start with one step today.