Many threats and hazards are possible in Kitsap County, Washington. And unfortunately, there are limited resources to address all possible emergencies. That’s why everyone has a responsibility to get prepared. The Kitsap County Department of Emergency Management (KCDEM) recommends that anyone who lives, works, and plays here follow these steps:
Learning about hazards where you work, play, and live will help you, your household, workplace, and community get prepared. Kitsap County is at high risk for a major earthquake, and like the rest of the world, we are at risk for pandemics. Knowing what could happen is important, depending on where you are in Kitsap County. Each local threat and hazard is described in detail here.
Having a disaster plan gives you peace of mind when an emergency happens. Decide as a group where your meeting locations are and who your out-of-area contact is. Be aware of what threats and hazards are most likely to occur where you work, play, and live.
You may be on your own for at least two weeks when a disaster happens. But, it is possible that a major earthquake could leave residents on their own for a month or more. The first step is to build a 2 weeks ready kit at home. Plan for smaller kits for work, school, and in vehicles. Once you have started a 2 week plan, consider adding supplies for a longer event. For more recommendations on what to put in your kit, visit Ready.Gov.
Don’t have the time or money to become prepared all at once? We recommend you take it in smaller steps. Approach emergency preparedness, one month at a time, over the course of a year with this guide (PDF.)
Different people have special considerations in emergencies. We hope you will take the time to learn how area threats and hazards may impact you and your situation.
Learn more about preparedness for different groups
KCDEM News
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Prepare your car before winter starts
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Events
Helpful Links
- You are the help until help arrives (source: FEMA)
- Get Disaster Ready (source: WA State Emergency Management)
- 9 Steps to take immediately following an emergency
- Beyond the first 72 hours of an emergency
- Securing a water supply during a disaster
- 2 Bucket Human Waste Management System (source: Mason County Emergency Management) (PDF)
- Ready.Gov
- Ready.Gov in Spanish
- How to Prepare for Emergencies (source: American Red Cross)
- Be Prepared Be Safe (source: WA State DOH)






