Emergency Preparedness

These guides are written for the hazards we face in northwest Arizona. Read, share, and use them to start a conversation at your dinner table this week — not after the next storm.


Build a 72-Hour Kit

Build a 72-Hour Kit

FEMA recommends every household be self-sufficient for at least 72 hours after a major disaster. In Mohave County, water and shade should top your list. A kit can be assembled over a few paychecks from a grocery store and a hardware store.

  • 1 gallon of water per person per day — minimum 3 days
  • Non-perishable food, manual can opener, and a small camp stove
  • Battery or crank radio, flashlight, spare batteries
  • First-aid kit, prescription medications, copies of IDs and records
  • Whistle, dust mask, gloves, plastic sheeting, duct tape
  • Cash in small bills, paper map of Mohave County

Vehicle & Personal Preparedness Supplies

Keep these supplies in your vehicle and in a personal bag so you're ready to respond or shelter in place without delay.

General Preparedness Supplies for Vehicle

  • Hard Hat
  • Work Gloves
  • Safety Goggles
  • Boots/Closed-Toe Shoes
  • Bandana or Shemagh
  • Flashlight w/ extra batteries or wind-up
  • CERT Vest and ID
  • Folding Shovel/E-Tool
  • Pry Bar
  • Tow Strap
  • Syphon Hose
  • Tire Plug Kit
  • Fire Extinguisher
  • Multi-Tool
  • LED Headlamp
  • Channel Lock Pliers
  • Crescent Wrench
  • Wire Cutters
  • Compass
  • Whistle
  • Poncho
  • Axe/Hatchet
  • Knee Pads
  • County Maps
  • Scissors
  • IFAK Trauma Kit
  • Tourniquets
  • First Aid Book
  • Water/Canteen
  • GMRS Radio
  • Retention Cord
  • Knee Pads
  • Trash Bags

Personal Supplies for Deployments

  • Long Johns
  • Toilet Paper
  • Tooth Brush/Tooth Paste
  • Money (Cash)
  • Sleeping Bag/Blankets
  • Pen & Notebook
  • Energy Bars
  • Glasses
  • Medication
  • Benadryl
  • Moleskin
  • Sunblock
Family Communication Plan

Family Communication Plan

Cellular networks may be congested or down. Identify an out-of-state contact every household member can call or text. Pick two meeting places — one near the home, one outside the neighborhood — in case you need to reunite.

Wildfire & Defensible Space

Wildfire & Defensible Space

Clear flammable vegetation within 30 feet of your home, trim trees so branches don't touch the roof, and keep gutters free of needles and leaves. During red-flag warnings, park vehicles facing out and keep go-bags by the door.

Monsoon & Flash Flood Safety

Turn around — don't drown. Six inches of moving water can knock an adult off their feet; twelve inches can carry away most vehicles. Know the low-water crossings on your daily routes and choose alternatives during storms.

Extreme Heat

Check on neighbors who live alone, especially older adults and those without air conditioning. Drink water before you feel thirsty. Plan outdoor activity before 10 AM or after 6 PM during summer.