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Plan & Prepare
It is critical that everyone is prepared for an emergency. Remember, sometimes emergencies are so immense that responders cannot immediately assist you or your family. It is your responsibility to prepare yourself by:
- Making a plan
- Make sure everyone in the family knows the plan
- Be trained in first aid and CPR (Cardio Pulmonary Resuscitation)
- Build emergency kits
- Volunteer
For more information, select a topic below or to the left.
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Animals and Pets
Pets are often full-fledged family members, so any family emergency plan must include them to be truly complete.
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Children
Children can be especially sensitive to the emotional stress of an emergency. Parents can help prepare children by including them in the planning process and answering their questions about safety.
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Communications Plan
Traditional means of communication may be limited during a widespread emergency situation. It is important that you identify several different ways to communicate with your family and friends.
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Emergency Communications
During an emergency, officials will work to provide timely, accurate information to the public. Many communities in Montana have several public information procedures and/or tools in place that may be used during a major emergency or disaster.
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Emergency Kit
Disasters can happen at any time and anywhere, and you may not have much time to respond. Take the steps on this page toward preparedness.
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Family Plan
Family emergency planning can be the key to surviving an emergency.
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Food
Keep enough food and potable water (suitable for drinking) on hand to sustain you and your family for at least three days. You may not have access to electricity or refrigeration and water may be scarce. Watch your salt content because salty foods make you drink more water.
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Functional Needs
While being prepared for disasters and emergencies is important for all individuals, it is even more critical for those with functional needs who may need assistance during an emergency.
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Go Bag
If you need to leave your home, be ready to go as quickly as possible. Having a Go Bag in an accessible place ensures that you and your family are prepared for whatever situation arises.
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Home Safety
Make sure your house is as safe as possible by following these few simple guidelines.
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Local Officials
Local officials in Montana have a wide range of responsibilities, perhaps the most important of which is ensuring the safety of the public.
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Schools/Campus
Safety in our schools and on our college campuses is a right every student and family should expect.
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Seniors
Seniors may have special needs that must be considered when you create a Household Plan and Emergency Kit.
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Staying Put/Evacuation
During some disasters, evacuating your home or business can put you at greater risk than staying put.
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Utilities
Knowing where your utility mains are located and how to operate them is key to household safety and can significantly decrease property damage during an emergency.
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Water
During an emergency, the water supply may be compromised or become contaminated. It is important to make sure you have enough water for everyone in your household for at least three days.
Emergency management content on the Butte-Silver Bow website was developed drawing heavily from and updating the excellent resources offered on the Ready Illinois website produced by the Illinois Emergency Management Agency (IEMA) and partner organizations.