The Virginia Department of Emergency Management (VDEM) has information on how to plan for, prepare for and handle natural and manmade disasters. For more information on specific situations, see the following links:

Emergency Management - Home
Emergency Responders
Emergency Preparedness
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Emergency Plans      

The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) works to reduce the loss of life due to disaster. FEMA helps citizens prepare for imminent or potential disasters and then assists in cleanup after a disaster has happened. Know what to do before a disaster strikes by visiting the following links:

The aftermath of a disaster can be devastating. There are often people who are homeless, have lost most of their valuables and do not know where to turn. There are a number of grants and assistance programs that can help during this time of need.

• Grants & Assistance

If you would like to help those who have been affected by a disaster, there are volunteer opportunities.

• Volunteer Information

Unfortunately, there will be people who try to take advantage of disaster outreach and assistance. If you know of anyone falsely claiming losses during a disaster, please visit the following page for information on how to help stop the fraud.

• Stop Disaster Fraud