The Department of Energy is participating in this month’s National Preparedness Month and America’s PrepareAthon! to promote nationwide, community-based actions that increase emergency preparedness.  We encourage your involvement because effective preparedness to any emergency takes a community effort from the ground up.

Natural hazards such as hurricanes and earthquakes, as well as man-made hazards, can knock out power. Knowing the risks and being prepared can lessen the impact of such events. To help you, your neighbors, your community, and businesses be prepared, we have developed community guidelines for energy emergencies so that you can become part of making the Nation more resilient.

Please keep in mind that, because every emergency is different, it is important for your safety that you follow the directives of your state and local emergency management authorities and local utilities. The information provided on our website is intended for general informational purposes only. Before engaging in any activities that could impact utility services such as electricity or natural gas, contact your local utility to ensure that the activities are done safely.

To learn more about how to be better prepared and how to protect your family during emergencies, visit the Federal Emergency Management Agency's website www.ready.gov. State and local emergency management authorities and local utilities may also provide helpful guidance.

In the meantime, please consider joining the National Preparedness Month Ready campaign so you can get prepared in your home, workplace and community.