A newly-constructed home elevated ten feet above ground level. (Source: Center for Hazards Assessment, Response and Technology)
The best time to help your community address the threat of storms is before they ever happen; an ounce of prevention may be worth well more than a pound of cure.
We’ve split the tools in this section into seven wide categories which can also be accessed in the navigation toolbar (above). Note that there is some overlap between categories so if you can’t find what you’re looking for it may be in a related section:
- Hazard Identification and Mapping: How to determine which hazards threaten which areas. A great place to start when looking at new or expanding development and when making land-use decisions.
- Planning: We all know we have to plan, but how do we start? What resources are available? Find out here.
- Regulation and Development Standards: Nobody likes rules, but sometimes they’re necessary to protect people and property. While sometimes difficult to implement, good regulations can go a long way towards making your community a safer place.
- Mitigation: In an ideal world, existing structures wouldn’t be in harm’s way. In the real world, many are. Here’s where you can read about how to help prevent them from being harmed.
- Infrastructure: If you’re like many communities, it’s not just buildings you’re concerned with. Storms and flooding damage your roads, utilities, and other infrastructure, too. Learn how to decrease your losses.
- Emergency Services: When the next storm happens, will your community be ready to respond to make sure lives are protected? Find out the best ways to do so in this section.
- Training and Outreach: Making the best decisions for your community requires well-informed decision makers and citizens. Look here to find out how to train you and your staff, and for ways to help your residents and visitors better understand their risks, too.
Not finding what you’re looking for? Try the search window to the top-right.