Emergencies and disasters happen. They’re just a part of life, and most of the time, there is nothing we can do to prevent them. That doesn’t mean that we don’t need to be as prepared as possible. Did you know that the first 72 hours of a disaster are critical to survival? We want to help your household have a plan and be as prepared as possible for the first 72 hours of an emergency or disaster.
In 2025, the Choctaw Nation wants to ensure that its members are as prepared as possible for any emergencies that may arise.
Here’s how to begin:
Develop a plan:
- Build an emergency supply kit (open to video and pdf of emergency supply kit checklist)
- Stay informed
- Prepare for recovery
- Use experience to improve your preparedness
- For emergency assistance and information, contact Choctaw Emergency Management at 1-800-522-6170.
Reference Page: Environmental Assessment
Winter weather can range from snowstorms, sleet, and blistering winds. Make sure you are prepared and safe for all.
Oklahoma is notorious for ice storms! Heavy accumulation of ice can bring down trees and power lines, cutting off communication and power for days. They also create dangerous driving conditions. Make sure you are prepared.
- Learn more at Ice Safety
Flooding is a dangerous natural disaster that can occur anywhere, particularly in areas with heavy rainfall or near bodies of water. Preparing for floods is crucial to creating an emergency plan, assembling a disaster supply kit, and staying informed about weather forecasts. Never attempt to drive or walk through floodwaters during a flood, as they can be deceptively deep and fast-moving. Always seek higher ground and follow instructions from local authorities.
Tornadoes are powerful, rotating columns of air that can cause significant damage and injury. It’s crucial to stay informed about weather forecasts and be aware of tornado warnings in your area. If a tornado warning is issued, seek shelter immediately in a basement, storm cellar, or an interior room on the lowest floor of a sturdy building. Stay away from windows and doors, and cover your head and neck with your arms or a blanket.
Severe thunderstorms can bring dangerous weather conditions, including strong winds, large hail, and heavy rainfall. If you hear a thunderstorm warning, seek shelter immediately in a sturdy building or vehicle. Stay away from windows and avoid using electronics. Be aware of the risk of flash flooding, especially in low-lying areas.
Wildfires are dangerous, uncontrolled fires that can spread quickly and cause significant damage to homes, forests, and communities. It’s crucial to be aware of fire restrictions and avoid activities that could spark a fire, such as campfires and smoking. If you live in a wildfire-prone area, create a fire evacuation plan, assemble an emergency kit, and stay informed about weather conditions and fire alerts.
Hurricane preparedness involves creating a plan for your family, including evacuation routes, communication strategies, and a designated meeting place. It’s also important to assemble an emergency kit with essential supplies like water, non-perishable food, medications, and first-aid items. Staying informed about weather forecasts and following instructions from local authorities are crucial during a hurricane threat.
Inland tropical systems, such as remnants of hurricanes or tropical storms, can still pose significant threats even after losing their tropical characteristics. These systems often bring heavy rainfall, leading to flash floods and river flooding, which can cause widespread damage and loss of life. It’s crucial to stay informed and follow weather advisories, as inland flooding is a significant hazard of tropical systems.
When preparing for emergencies, remember your furry family members. Include them in your emergency plans and create a pet-specific emergency kit with food, water, medications, and a carrier. Ensure your pets have proper identification, like collars with tags or microchips. Consider pet-friendly shelters and boarding facilities in case evacuation is necessary.
Lightning strikes can be deadly. If you hear thunder, seek immediate shelter indoors. Avoid water, tall objects, and open spaces. If caught outside, crouch on your toes, minimizing contact with the ground. Remember, when thunder roars, go indoors.
Extreme heat can be dangerous, especially for vulnerable populations like the elderly and young children. To stay safe, drink plenty of water, avoid excessive outdoor activity during peak heat hours, and seek air-conditioned spaces. Wear lightweight, loose-fitting clothing and limit your time in direct sunlight. If you experience symptoms of heat-related illness, such as dizziness, headache, or rapid pulse, seek medical attention immediately.
Youth preparedness empowers young people to be resilient in the face of emergencies. By learning essential survival skills, creating emergency plans, and assembling emergency kits, young individuals can contribute to their family’s safety.
September marks National Preparedness Month, a crucial time to prioritize emergency readiness. Creating a family emergency plan, assembling a disaster supply kit, and staying informed about potential hazards can significantly increase your family’s safety and resilience during emergencies. Remember, being prepared is the key to weathering any storm.
Practice the “Drop, Cover, and Hold On” technique during an earthquake. Drop to the ground, take cover under a sturdy table or desk, and hold on until the shaking stops. If you’re outside, move to an open area away from buildings, trees, and power lines.
Fire prevention is crucial for home safety. Install smoke alarms on every level of your home and test them monthly. Create a fire escape plan and practice it regularly with your family. Avoid careless smoking habits, keep flammable materials away from heat sources, and be cautious when cooking.
Strong winds can pose serious dangers, so staying informed about weather forecasts and warnings is essential. If a high wind warning is issued, seek shelter indoors, away from windows. Secure loose outdoor objects to prevent them from becoming projectiles. If you’re caught outdoors, find shelter near a sturdy building or under a bridge or overpass.
Winter travel can be treacherous due to icy roads, reduced visibility, and severe weather conditions. Before embarking on a winter trip, check road conditions, ensure your vehicle is winterized, and pack essential supplies like blankets, food, and water. During your journey, drive cautiously, maintain a safe distance from other cars, and be prepared for unexpected delays.
Be mindful of fire hazards to ensure a safe and joyous holiday season. Keep your Christmas tree well-watered and away from heat sources. Use caution with candles, ensuring they are placed on stable surfaces and extinguished before leaving the room or going to bed.