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For Residents

Preparedness for Individuals

A few simple steps — a plan, a kit, an understanding of your risks, and the right alerts — can protect your household when it matters most.

The time to prepare is now

Be Ready Before Disaster Strikes

Disasters can happen at any time—often with little warning. In Christian County, hazards like tornadoes, severe storms, flooding, and winter weather can impact our community. Taking simple steps now can make a major difference in your safety and recovery.

Preparedness starts with you. By planning ahead, building a kit, and staying informed, you can protect yourself and your family during an emergency.

Four Steps Towards Preparedness

Emergency preparedness can be broken down into four steps:

Step 1 – Make a Plan

Every household should have a plan for what to do during an emergency. Your plan should include:

  • How you will communicate with family members
  • Where you will go if you need to evacuate
  • Where you will shelter during severe weather
  • Emergency contacts (including out-of-area contacts)
  • Plans for pets and individuals with special needs

Download our Family Disaster Plan Template to get started.

Step 2 – Build an Emergency Kit

After a disaster, you may need to be self-sufficient for at least 72 hours. A basic emergency kit should include:

  • Water (1 gallon per person per day)
  • Non-perishable food
  • Flashlight and extra batteries
  • First aid kit
  • Medications
  • Battery-powered or hand-crank radio
  • Important documents (copies)
  • Personal hygiene items
  • Cash
Tip: Build your kit over time—add a few items each week.

Step 3 – Understand Your Risks

Understanding the hazards most likely to affect Christian County helps you prepare effectively. Common local hazards include:

  • Tornadoes
  • Severe thunderstorms
  • Floods
  • Winter weather
  • Extreme heat
  • Home fires
  • Wildfires
  • Earthquakes

Learn what to do before, during, and after each type of disaster by visiting the hazard information pages.

Step 4 – Stay Informed

Receiving timely alerts and warnings is critical. Christian County uses Smart911 to notify residents of emergencies, weather hazards, and important public safety information.

Sign up today to receive alerts:

  • Phone calls
  • Text messages
  • Emails

Register at Smart911 and customize how you receive alerts.

Also consider:

  • NOAA Weather Radio
  • Local news and weather sources
  • National Weather Service alerts

Additional Preparedness Actions

Protect Your Home

  • Identify a safe place in your home (basement or interior room)
  • Consider installing a FEMA-compliant safe room
  • Secure outdoor items that could become debris
  • Review insurance coverage (home, flood, renters)

Plan for Special Situations

Be sure to account for:

  • Children and schools/daycare
  • Older adults
  • Individuals with disabilities or medical needs
  • Pets and livestock

Christian County also offers a Special Needs Registry to assist responders during emergencies.

Get Involved

Prepared communities are stronger communities. You can:

Community involvement strengthens overall resilience and response capabilities.

When Disaster Happens

During an emergency:

  • Follow instructions from local officials
  • Use 911 for emergencies only
  • Stay off the roads unless necessary
  • Check on neighbors when it is safe to do so

After a disaster:

  • Report damage using the Storm Damage Report
  • Avoid downed power lines and hazards
  • Document damage for insurance purposes

Helpful Resources

Start Preparing Today

Emergencies don’t wait—and neither should you. Taking a few steps today can protect your life, your family, and your property tomorrow.

If you need help building a plan or preparing your household, contact Christian County Emergency Management for guidance and resources.