Are You Ready?
Emergency Preparedness Begins with You
What Is Emergency Preparedness?
Preparedness is a whole-community effort. According to FEMA, everyone plays a role—from individuals and families to businesses, faith-based groups, and government agencies. Bluffton Township Fire District supports the National Preparedness Goal by offering education, resources, and training that strengthen community readiness for disasters of all kinds.
What Are the Threats in Our Area?
Living in the South Carolina Lowcountry comes with specific risks:
- Hurricanes and tropical storms
- Tornadoes and flash floods
- Wildfires and earthquakes
- Hazardous materials incidents
- Acts of terrorism and cyberattacks
- Widespread power outages
By recognizing these threats, you can take steps to protect what matters most.
What Can You Do?
Start preparing today with these steps:
- Build a Kit: Store 72 hours’ worth of essentials—water, nonperishable food, flashlights, medications, batteries, and hygiene items.
- Make a Plan: Know where you’ll go during an evacuation. Discuss emergency procedures with your family.
- Stay Informed: Sign up for local alerts and monitor official emergency broadcasts.
- Adapt Your Plan: Think about elderly family members, children, pets, and people with access or functional needs. Each will have different preparedness needs.
Don’t Forget Pet & Business Preparedness
Pet Preparedness
Evacuating with pets? Prepare vaccination records, pet carriers, leashes, food, and water. Locate pet-friendly shelters or hotels in advance.
Business Preparedness
Disasters can disrupt operations and put employees at risk. Ensure your business has:
- A written emergency plan
- A continuity strategy
- A communication plan for staff and customers
- Alternate suppliers or work locations
Resources & Information
Build a Kit. Make a Plan. Start Now.
A little planning today can save lives tomorrow. Use these guidelines to prepare your home, your family, and your pets for hurricanes, floods, and other emergencies common to the Bluffton area.
Pet Preparedness
Disasters can strike with little warning, and pets depend on you to be ready. Prepare now with kits, plans, and essentials that ensure your animals are safe, comfortable, and accounted for during emergencies.
Preparedness Planning for Your Business
Bluffton Township Fire District encourages all business owners to be prepared for a range of natural and man-made hazards. Learn how to protect your employees, limit downtime, and ensure your business can bounce back.
Hurricane Evacuation Information
Bluffton Township Fire District encourages all residents to know their evacuation zone, plan a route in advance, and stay informed. This page outlines what to do before, during, and after a hurricane evacuation order.