Local officials and relief workers will be on the scene after a disaster, but they can’t reach everyone right away. Understanding your responsibilities and using the information contained on this site will help you better prepare for hurricane season and other emergencies.

To better cope with disaster, prepare in advance and by working with your neighbors and local government agencies as a team.

• Create a disaster plan for your family. 

• If you live alone talk to your neighbors and friends about developing a neighborhood response plan. 

• Being prepared is your best protection and your responsibility.

A good disaster preparedness plan provides a margin of safety protecting you, your family and your neighbors. Having a disaster plan improves your communities’ ability to recover.

Emergency Management is not one individual or government office, it is all members of the community working together to prepare, respond and recover from the effects of disaster.

If you have specific questions related to creating your disaster plan, call Emergency Management at 941-861-5000.

Let’s work together and be prepared.