Emergency Preparedness
Practical steps and trusted resources to help families stay safe before, during, and after an emergency.
Be Ready Before an Emergency Happens
Emergencies can happen without warning — extreme heat, flooding, power outages, wildfires, and more. The best time to prepare is now, before you need it.
This page is a living resource. Sam is compiling a full list of local emergency preparedness information and will update this page as soon as it is ready. Check back soon.
More Resources Coming Soon
Sam is gathering a comprehensive list of emergency preparedness resources specific to the Phoenix metro area and Arizona communities. This will include step-by-step guides for different types of emergencies, local shelter and cooling center locations, and contacts for community support.
Get notified when this page is updatedTypes of Emergencies
Extreme Heat
Arizona summers can be deadly. Know the signs of heat exhaustion and heat stroke, and where to find cooling centers near you.
- Stay indoors during peak heat hours (10 a.m. – 6 p.m.)
- Drink water consistently — do not wait until you feel thirsty
- Check on elderly neighbors, children, and pets
- Know the location of your nearest cooling center
- Never leave anyone in a parked car
Power Outages
Extended power outages can be dangerous, especially during extreme heat. Prepare your household now.
- Keep flashlights and extra batteries in an accessible place
- Have a battery-powered or hand-crank radio for emergency alerts
- Keep your phone charged and have a backup battery pack
- Store at least three days of water (one gallon per person per day)
- Know how to manually open your garage door
Flash Flooding
Arizona monsoon season brings sudden, dangerous flash floods. Never drive through flooded roadways.
- Turn Around, Don't Drown — never drive through flooded roads
- Move to higher ground immediately if flooding threatens your area
- Avoid washes, drainage channels, and low-lying areas during storms
- Sign up for Maricopa County emergency alerts
- Keep important documents in a waterproof container
Emergency Go-Bag
A go-bag is a pre-packed bag you can grab in minutes if you need to evacuate quickly. Every household should have one.
- Water — at least one bottle per person
- Non-perishable food for at least three days
- Copies of important documents (ID, insurance, medical records)
- Medications and first aid supplies
- Phone charger, cash, and a change of clothes
- Flashlight, batteries, and a whistle
Trusted Resources
Official emergency alerts, preparedness guides, and shelter locations for Maricopa County.
Statewide emergency preparedness resources, disaster declarations, and recovery assistance.
Step-by-step guidance from FEMA for building a family emergency plan and supply kit.
Disaster relief, shelter during emergencies, and preparedness training in Arizona.
Call or text 211 to connect with local health and human services, including emergency assistance.
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