How Do I...?

Do you have a question about what to do in a disaster or how to prepare before it happens? If so, this is the right page. We anticipated the most common questions and assembled a number of PDF documents with information addressing those questions. We receive new questions all the time, so check back often for updates. If your question isn't here, drop us a line and we will do our best to answer it. If it is one that might be of interest to others, we'll post it here. Questions with short answers are listed right here on this page. Ones that need longer answers have their own pages. They are listed on the left hand navigation column.

As you learn more, you may what to check out our programs, including Seattle Neighborhoods Actively Prepare (SNAP) and Home Retrofit They teach you how to protect yourself against all hazards. We also have a new business section.

Contact the City and Other Major Institutions

Resource Numbers
This page lists many of the phone numbers you may need to call after an emergency.

Prepare for Hazards

Household Fires (PDF)

Earthquakes (PDF)

Winter Storms (PDF)

Windstorms (PDF)

Volcanoes (PDF)

Tsunamis (PDF)

Terrorism (PDF)

Bomb Threats (PDF)

Radiation Exposure (PDF)

Power Outages (PDF)

Pandemic Flu (PDF)

Floods (PDF)

Prepare for Special Needs

Visual Impairment (PDF)

Hearing Impairment (PDF)

Prepare for Special Medical Needs (PDF)

Get Children Ready for a Disaster (PDF)