While help is often available when disaster strikes, it’s best to be as prepared as possible to ensure that you and your family are covered. The following agencies and organizations can help you plan for potential disasters and often offer assistance in emergency situations:  

• State and county offices of emergency preparedness – Do an Internet search for your state or county and “emergency preparedness.”  
• Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) – Visit fema.gov to learn more about preparing for and responding to emergencies.  
• Department of Homeland Security – For information related to terrorist events, call the Department of Homeland Security at 800.BE.READY (800.237.3239), or visit ready.gov. 
• American Red Cross – Visit redcross.org and enter your ZIP code in the “Find Your Local Red Cross” area or click or tap on “Plan and Prepare” to see many more facts and tips on disaster preparedness. Call your local chapter for more specific information. Download disaster-specific apps for your smartphone at redcross.org/prepare/mobile-apps.  
• Salvation Army – Visit salvationarmyusa.org.  
• Volunteers of America – Call 800.899.0089 or visit voa.org.  
• National Voluntary Organizations Active in Disaster – Visit nvoad.org.