Emergency Preparedness for Veterans

Be prepared. Stay informed. Protect what matters most.

Extreme weather events can happen with little warning. Preparing in advance can help protect you, your family, and ensure continued access to the benefits and care you’ve earned.

At EWS, we encourage veterans to take simple, proactive steps to stay ready, no matter the type of disaster. One piece of advice we often hear from survivors is to take a video recording of your home and describe out loud how much you paid for the different items. This video inventory could eventually help if you ever need to document your possessions for an insurance claim or other recovery effort.

We also recommend staying informed about potential threats in your area, having an emergency kit ready, and protecting important documents. Taking these steps ahead of time can provide peace of mind and make it easier to recover if disaster strikes.

The most important thing is protecting what matters most - your safety, your family, and your access to the support you've earned through your service. EWS is here to help veterans like you get prepared and stay resilient in the face of extreme weather and other emergencies.

Start with the Basics

Build a Personal Emergency Plan

  • Identify safe evacuation routes and shelter locations

  • Share your plan with family or a trusted contact

  • Plan for pets and dependents

  • Keep a list of emergency contacts (family, VA providers, local resources)

Create an Emergency Kit

Prepare a “go bag” with essentials for at least 3-7 days:

  • Water and non-perishable food

  • Medications and medical supplies

  • Copies of important documents (DD-214, ID, insurance, VA records)

  • Phone chargers and backup battery

  • Flashlight, batteries, first aid kit

  • Cash and basic supplies

Protect Important Documents

  • Store copies of your DD-214 and medical records in a waterproof/fireproof container

  • Save digital copies securely (cloud or encrypted drive)

  • Keep contact information for VA providers and benefits offices

Preparedness By Disaster Type

Flooding

  • Know your flood zone and evacuation routes

  • Elevate important items and documents

  • Avoid driving through flooded areas

Wildfires

  • Prepare for rapid evacuation

  • Keep your vehicle fueled and ready

  • Pack essentials in advance

  • Monitor local alerts

Hurricanes & Severe Storms

  • Secure your home and outdoor items

  • Stock extra food, water, and medications

  • Follow evacuation orders early

Tornadoes

  • Identify a safe shelter (basement or interior room)

  • Keep helmets, blankets, and emergency supplies nearby

  • Stay alert to weather warnings

Earthquakes

  • Secure heavy furniture and objects

  • Identify safe “drop, cover, and hold on” areas

  • Keep emergency supplies easily accessible

VA Emergency Preparedness Resources

The Department of Veterans Affairs provides preparedness guidance and support:

Stay Connected During Emergencies

  • Keep your VA contact information updated

  • Sign up for local emergency alerts

  • Follow your VA Medical Center for updates

  • Maintain communication with family and support networks

After the Disaster

  • Document damages (photos, notes)

  • Contact FEMA, VA, and insurance providers

  • Use the EWS Veterans Resource Guide for recovery support

  • Replace any lost records as soon as possible