Protect your life, family and property during National Preparedness Month
What would you do if you had to leave your home immediately because of a wildfire or flood? Are you prepared to safely endure severe weather at home or in your vehicle?
During National Preparedness Month this September, Douglas County encourages everyone to take simple steps now to prepare for an emergency.
Douglas County and neighboring communities regularly experience hazards such as severe winter weather, wildfires and floods. Individual preparation, shared responsibility and early action can make a significant difference when disaster strikes.
Douglas County and the Douglas County Sheriff’s Office support community preparedness through:
- Aerial firefighting support. In 2026, the County secured year-round access to aerial wildfire resources, including 168 days of exclusive use of a Type 2 helicopter capable of delivering 300 gallons of water.
- A layered emergency warning system that includes DougCoAlert, Wireless Emergency Alerts and new Hi-Lo evacuation sirens. Remember: When you hear the Hi-Lo, it’s time to go.
Having an emergency plan and supply kit can help you respond more quickly and calmly during a disaster. Take these steps now:
- Stay informed about local weather conditions, fire restrictions and other hazards.
- Register for DougCoAlert to receive local public-safety alerts by telephone, text message and email. Even if you previously registered for CodeRED, you must register again for DougCoAlert. Register each household member who has a phone.
- Learn Douglas County’s emergency terminology:
- Evacuation Order: Leave immediately because there is an immediate threat to life.
- Evacuation Warning: Prepare to leave; people who need additional time and those with pets or livestock should leave now.
- Shelter in Place: Go indoors, close and lock doors and windows, and prepare to remain there until officials provide further instructions.
- Develop and practice an emergency plan for your household. Identify evacuation routes, meeting locations and an out-of-area contact.
- Build an emergency supply kit with water, food, medications and other essential supplies to last several days. Keep supplies at home and in your vehicle, and account for each household member’s individual needs.
- Contact your utility providers to confirm that they have your current contact information. Ask how to prepare for service disruptions and how and when to safely shut off utilities.
Preparedness starts before an emergency. Taking a few steps today can help protect your life, your family and your property when every second counts.
Learn more about National Preparedness Month at Ready.gov.
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