Preparing for emergencies in the community

You can't predict when your community may be affected by a disaster but you can be prepared. Communities can use local resources and knowledge to help themselves during an emergency and complement emergency services.

For latest Community Resilience information visit the SupportDG site

Risks to communities

  • Severe weather
  • Infectious disease
  • Fuel shortages
  • Major accidents

Possible effects

  • Loss of life
  • Severe injury / illness
  • Damage to property
  • Travel restrictions
  • Lack of supplies

Planning for an emergency

It is worthwhile having a resilience plan for your community which details the knowledge and resources available to minimise disruption during a crisis.

A community resilience plan should:

  • identify the essential requirements for your community
  • set out what to do during a crisis with clear roles and responsibilities
  • list the actions that allow key activities to continue in difficult circumstances

Icon for word Download Community Resilience Plan Template 2021 [DOCX - 2MB]

Support we offer

Training support and assistance is available for any community group who wants to complete a community resilience plan. Other support includes:

Community resilience checklist

  • Do you know which neighbours could be most vulnerable in an emergency?
  • Are there facilities available for shelter and evacuation?
  • Are you aware of any specific local risks which could pose problems?
  • Do you have a list of useful contact telephone numbers (neighbours, emergency services, utility providers and local voluntary organisations)?
  • Is equipment available which could be useful when responding to a crisis?
Page last updated: 30/04/2021
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