Disasters can take many forms, and the financial costs of rebuilding after one can be prohibitively expensive. If you prepare for emergencies, you will be better able to recover and continue operations if disaster strikes.

Individuals, businesses, and communities can use the following tips to prepare for environmental emergencies and disasters:

• Review EPA’s tips for general emergency preparedness
• Access EPA’s resources for creating healthy, sustainable, and equitable communities
• Follow the Center for Disease Control and Prevention’s (CDC) guidance related to COVID-19 health and safety
• Access available resources for emergency preparedness at ready.gov
• Use the emergency preparedness resources available from your state, local, and/or tribal community

The EPA has an active role in the preparedness, prevention, response, and recovery of oil spills; chemical, biological, and radiological releases; and natural disasters. In addition to collaborating with other federal agencies to provide emergency response assistance, the Agency assists states, local governments, and tribal governments when additional resources are required or have been depleted.