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Emergency Planning

Start preparing for the potential impacts of the storm now instead of waiting until the storm is already in our area. Here are some things you can do:

  • Update your disaster kit. Make sure to have a three-day supply of non-perishable food and bottled water, a battery-operated radio, a flashlight, extra batteries, cash, medicines, a first aid kit, pet foods, and important family documents.
  • Know your evacuation routes and prepare options for overnight lodging. Storm surge can sometimes cut off evacuation routes, so do not delay leaving if an evacuation is ordered for your area. If you encounter floodwaters, remember – turn around, don’t drown.
  • Develop an emergency communication plan, which includes the telephone number of a family member or friend outside the area as a designated point of contact, in the event of separation when a storm hits.

Download the FEMA mobile app for a customizable checklist of emergency supplies, maps of open shelters and recovery centers, disaster survival tips, and weather alerts from the National Weather Service. The app also enables users to receive push notifications reminding them to take important steps to prepare their homes and families for disasters.

Important Numbers:

For information regarding emergency services in LIFE’s service counties – here are the contact numbers for the local emergency management agencies:

  • Appling: (912) 367-8170
  • Bacon: (912) 632-7979
  • Brantley: (912) 462-7874
  • Bryan: (912) 756-1982
  • Camden: (912) 729-5602
  • Charlton: (912) 496-1081
  • Chatham: (912) 201-4500
  • Effingham: (912) 754-8200
  • Glynn: (912) 267-5678
  • Liberty: (912) 877-5362
  • Long: (912) 545-2143
  • McIntosh: (912) 437-5170
  • Pierce: (912) 449-2041
  • Ware: (912) 287-4391
  • Wayne: (912) 427-5979

If you need assistance or have questions about State Hurricane Response, call the Georgia Emergency Management at 1-800-TRY-GEMA or (1-800-879-4362).

For medical or health related questions, call the Georgia Department of Public Health at 1-866-PUB-HLTH (1-866-782-4584).

If you are in immediate danger, call 911, but please reserve 911 for emergencies only.

History shows that storm tracks can change quickly and unexpectedly. Residents and visitors in Coastal and South Georgia should continue to monitor local radio and TV stations for updated emergency information and follow the instructions of state and local officials. Visit www.ready.gov or http://ready.ga.gov/ for more severe weather and hurricane preparedness information and resources

Here’s a clear, practical list of Basic Hurricane Preparedness Tips for People with Disabilities, designed to make planning more manageable and effective:

1. Create a Personal Emergency Plan

  • Tailor it to your needs: Outline what assistance you need during evacuation and sheltering (mobility aids, medications, communication devices, etc.).
  • Communicate your plan: Share it with family, friends, caregivers, and neighbors.
  • Keep a contact list: Include doctors, caregivers, family, and local emergency services.

2. Assemble a Disability-Specific Emergency Kit

In addition to basic supplies (water, food, flashlight, batteries), include:

  • Extra medications (at least a week’s supply) and copies of prescriptions.
  • Medical supplies: Hearing aid batteries, spare glasses, wheelchair repair kit, etc.
  • Assistive technology: Chargers, backup batteries, or manual alternatives.
  • Written instructions: For care and equipment in case you are unable to communicate.
  • Personal identification and medical documents in waterproof bags.

3. Plan for Evacuation

  • Register with local emergency management: Some areas offer registries for people needing extra assistance during disasters.
  • Know accessible shelters: Find out which shelters can accommodate your needs (ADA-compliant, medical support available).
  • Transportation assistance: Arrange accessible transport if needed; know evacuation routes.

4. Stay Informed

  • Sign up for emergency alerts: Get warnings via text, phone, or email.
  • Monitor weather updates: Have a NOAA weather radio with text or audio outputs that fit your needs.

5. Home Preparation

  • Backup power: If you rely on power-dependent equipment, plan for generators or battery backups.
  • Safe space: Designate an accessible area in your home to shelter-in-place if evacuation isn’t possible.

6. Practice Your Plan

  • Drills: Practice evacuating, using backup equipment, and contacting your support network.

7. Legal and Financial Preparedness

  • Durable power of attorney andadvance directives: Ensure your healthcare wishes are documented.
  • Emergency cash: ATMs and banks may be inaccessible after a storm.
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