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The best ways to prepare your Arizona home for wildfire season

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Heatwaves explained: the why, what and how

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Prepare Before

Stay Safe During

Stay Safe After

Additional Resources

If you are a disaster survivor, please visit FEMA.gov for up-to-date information on current disaster declarations. If you have questions about your disaster assistance application, you can call (800) 621-3362, visit disasterassistance.gov or use the FEMA mobile app.

An earthquake is a sudden, rapid shaking of the ground caused by the shifting of rocks deep underneath the earth's surface. Earthquakes can cause fires, tsunamis, landslides or avalanches. While they can happen anywhere without warning, areas at higher risk for earthquakes include Alaska, California, Hawaii, Oregon, Puerto Rico, Washington and the entire Mississippi River Valley.

Prepare Before an Earthquake

The best time to prepare for any disaster is before it happens.

Practice Drop, Cover, and Hold On with family and coworkers.

Make an Emergency Plan: Create a family emergency communications plan that has an out-of-state contact. Plan where to meet if you get separated. Make a supply kit that includes enough food and water for several days, a flashlight, a fire extinguisher and a whistle.

Being prepared allows you to avoid unnecessary excursions and to address minor medical issues at home, alleviating the burden on urgent care centers and hospitals.

Remember that not everyone can afford to respond by stocking up on necessities. For those who can afford it, make essential purchases and slowly build up supplies.

Protect Your Home: Secure heavy items in your home like bookcases, refrigerators, water heaters, televisions and objects that hang on walls. Store heavy and breakable objects on low shelves.

Consider making improvements to your building to fix structural issues that could cause your building to collapse during an earthquake.

Consider obtaining an earthquake insurance policy. A standard homeowner's insurance policy does not cover earthquake damage.

Stay Safe During

If an earthquake happens, protect yourself right away:

If you are in a car, pull over and stop. Set your parking brake.

If you are in bed, turn face down and cover your head and neck with a pillow.

If you are outdoors, stay outdoors away from buildings.

If you are inside, stay and do not run outside and avoid doorways.

Protect Yourself During Earthquakes

1. Drop (or Lock)

Wherever you are, drop down to your hands and knees and hold onto something sturdy. If you're using a wheelchair or walker with a seat, make sure your wheels are locked and remain seated until the shaking stops.

2. Cover

Cover your head and neck with your arms. If a sturdy table or desk is nearby, crawl underneath it for shelter. If no shelter is nearby, crawl next to an interior wall (away from windows). Crawl only if you can reach better cover without going through an area with more debris. Stay on your knees or bent over to protect vital organs.

3. Hold On

If you are under a table or desk, hold on with one hand and be ready to move with it if it moves. If seated and unable to drop to the floor, bend forward, cover your head with your arms and hold on to your neck with both hands.

Using a Cane?

Using a Walker?

Using a Wheelchair?

Stay Safe After

There can be serious hazards after an earthquake, such as damage to the building, leaking gas and water lines, or downed power lines.

Expect aftershocks to follow the main shock of an earthquake. Be ready to Drop, Cover, and Hold On if you feel an aftershock.

If you are in a damaged building, go outside and quickly move away from the building. Do not enter damaged buildings.

If you are trapped, send a text or bang on a pipe or wall. Cover your mouth with your shirt for protection and instead of shouting, use a whistle.

If you are in an area that may experience tsunamis, go inland or to higher ground immediately after the shaking stops. Avoid contact with floodwaters as they can contain chemicals, sewage, and debris.

Check yourself to see if you are hurt and help others if you have training. Learn how to be the help until help arrives.
If you are sick or injured and need medical attention, contact your healthcare provider for instructions. If you are experiencing a medical emergency, call 9-1-1.

Once you are safe, pay attention to local news reports for emergency information and instructions via battery-operated radio, TV, social media or from cell phone text alerts.

Register on the American Red Cross "Safe and Well" website so people will know you are okay.

Use text messages to communicate, which may be more reliable than phone calls.

Be careful when cleaning up. Wear protective clothing, including a long-sleeved shirt, long pants, work gloves and sturdy thick-soled shoes. Do not try to remove heavy debris by yourself. Use an appropriate mask if cleaning mold or other debris. People with asthma and other lung conditions and/or immune suppression should not enter buildings with indoor water leaks or mold growth that can be seen or smelled. Children should not take part in disaster cleanup work.

Additional Resources

Videos

Social Media and Graphics

Tip Sheets

More Information

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Learn how to stay safe before, during, and after an earthquake. Prepare Before Stay Safe During Stay Safe After Additional Resources

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Learn how to stay safe when extreme heat threatens. Prepare for Extreme Heat Be Safe During Heat-Related Illnesses Summer Break Associated Content

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Landslides occur in all U.S. states and territories and can be caused by many factors including earthquakes, storms, volcanic eruptions, fire and human modifications of land. The most dangerous, life-threatening and deadliest landslides are the ones that occur quickly, often with little notice.

How to protect yourself or your property depends on the type of landslide. Land-use zoning, professional inspections, and proper design can reduce many landslide problems, but evacuation often is the only way to protect lives from a debris flow or other fast-moving landslide.

Not all landslides are fast. Some slow-moving landslides move at a snail's pace, stopping and starting, and not advancing more than three feet a year. While these landslides rarely cause loss of life, they can cause damage to land and property over time.

Before a Landslide

The following are things you can do to protect yourself, your family and your property from the effects of a landslide or debris flow:

Recognize Warning Signs

During a Landslide

After a Landslide

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Learn what to do before, during, and after a landslide. Before a Landslide During a Landslide After a Landslide Related Content

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Floods may:

Find safe shelter right away.

Do not walk, swim or drive through flood waters. Turn Around, Don't Drown!

Remember, just six inches of moving water can knock you down, and one foot of moving water can sweep your vehicle away.

Stay off bridges over fast-moving water.

Depending on the type of flooding:

Evacuate if told to do so.

Move to higher ground or a higher floor.

Stay where you are.

Preparing for a Flood
Make a plan for your household, including your pets, so that you and your family know what to do, where to go, and what you will need to protect yourselves from flooding. Learn and practice evacuation routes, shelter plans, and flash flood response. Gather supplies, including non-perishable foods, cleaning supplies, and water for several days, in case you must leave immediately or if services are cut off in your area.

In Case of Emergency
Keep important documents in a waterproof container. Create password-protected digital copies. Protect your property. Move valuables to higher levels. Declutter drains and gutters. Install check valves. Consider a sump pump with a battery.

Evacuate immediately, if told to evacuate. Never drive around barricades. Local responders use them to safely direct traffic out of flooded areas.

Contact your healthcare provider If you are sick and need medical attention. Wait for further care instructions and shelter in place, if possible. If you are experiencing a medical emergency, call 9-1-1.

Listen to EAS, NOAA Weather Radio or local alerting systems for current emergency information and instructions regarding flooding.

Do not walk, swim or drive through flood waters. Turn Around. Don't Drown!

Stay off bridges over fast-moving water. Fast-moving water can wash bridges away without warning.

Stay inside your car if it is trapped in rapidly moving water. Get on the roof if water is rising inside the car.

Get to the highest level if trapped in a building. Only get on the roof if necessary and once there signal for help. Do not climb into a closed attic to avoid getting trapped by rising floodwater.

Pay attention to authorities for information and instructions. Return home only when authorities say it is safe.

Avoid driving except in emergencies.

Wear heavy work gloves, protective clothing and boots during clean up and use appropriate face coverings or masks if cleaning mold or other debris.

People with asthma and other lung conditions and/or immune suppression should not enter buildings with indoor water leaks or mold growth that can be seen or smelled. Children should not take part in disaster cleanup work.

Be aware that snakes and other animals may be in your house.

Be aware of the risk of electrocution. Do not touch electrical equipment if it is wet or if you are standing in water. Turn off the electricity to prevent electric shock if it is safe to do so.

Avoid wading in floodwater, which can be contaminated and contain dangerous debris. Underground or downed power lines can also electrically charge the water.

Use a generator or other gasoline-powered machinery ONLY outdoors and away from windows.

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Floods are the most common natural disaster in the United States. Learn how to stay safe when a flood threatens. Prepare for a flood During a flood After a flood Associated content Flooding is a temporary overflow of water onto land that is normally dry. Floods are the most common disaster in the United States.

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Tornadoes are violently rotating columns of air that extend from a thunderstorm to the ground. Tornadoes can destroy buildings, flip cars, and create deadly flying debris.

A tornado can:

Happen anytime and anywhere.

Bring intense winds, over 200 miles per hour.

Look like funnels.

If you are under a tornado or severe weather warning:

Go to NOAA Weather Radio and your local news or official social media accounts for updated emergency information. Follow the instructions of state, local and tribal officials.

Go to a safe shelter immediately, such as a safe room, basement, storm cellar or a small interior room on the lowest level of a sturdy building.

Stay away from windows, doors, and outside walls.

Do not go under an overpass or bridge. You're safer in a low, flat location.

Watch out for flying debris that can cause injury or death.

Use your arms to protect your head and neck.

If you can't stay at home, make plans to go to a public shelter.

Preparing for a Tornado

Staying Safe During a Tornado

Staying Safe After a Tornado

Associated Content

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Learn what to do if you are under a tornado warning and how to stay safe when a tornado threatens. Prepare for Tornadoes Stay Safe During Stay Safe After Associated Content Tornadoes are violently rotating columns of air that extend from a thunderstorm to the ground.

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Wildfires are unplanned fires that burn in natural areas like forests, grasslands or prairies. These dangerous fires spread quickly and can devastate not only wildlife and natural areas, but also communities.

Prepare for Wildfires

Stay Safe During

Returning Home After a Wildfire

Additional Resources

Videos

Social Media & Graphics

More Info

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How to prepare for a wildfire, stay safe during a wildfire, and return home safely after a wildfire. Prepare for Wildfires Stay Safe During After a Wildfire Additional Resources Wildfires are unplanned fires that burn in natural areas like forests, grasslands or prairies.

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Nearly every part of the U.S. experiences periods of reduced rainfall. Planning in advance for a drought can protect us in dry years.

Before a Drought

The best way to prepare for a drought is to conserve water. Make conserving water a part of your daily life.

Indoor Water Conservation Tips Before a Drought
GENERAL

Never pour water down the drain when there may be another use for it. For example, use it to water your indoor plants or garden.

Fix dripping faucets by replacing washers. One drop per second wastes 2,700 gallons of water a year.

Check all plumbing for leaks and have any leaks repaired by a plumber.

Retrofit all household faucets by installing aerators with flow restrictors.

Install an instant hot water heater on your sink.

Insulate your water pipes to reduce heat loss and prevent them from breaking.

Install a water-softening system only when the minerals in the water would damage your pipes. Turn the softener off while on vacation.

Choose appliances that are more energy and water efficient.

BATHROOM KITCHEN
Outdoor Water Conservation Tips Before a Drought
GENERAL

If you have a well pump, check it periodically. If the automatic pump turns on and off while water is not being used, you have a leak.

Plant native and/or drought-tolerant grasses, ground covers, shrubs and trees. Once established, your plants won't need as much watering. Group plants together based on similar water needs.

Don't install ornamental water features (such as fountains) unless they use re-circulated water.

Consider rainwater harvesting where practical.

Contact your local water provider for information and assistance.

LAWN CARE POOL
During a Drought

Always observe state and local restrictions on water use during a drought. Contact your state or local government for current information and suggestions.

Indoor Water Conservation Tips During a Drought
BATHROOM LAUNDRY KITCHEN
Outdoor Water Conservation Tips During a Drought
LAWN CARE

A heavy rain eliminates the need for watering for up to two weeks. Most of the year, lawns only need one inch of water per week.

Check the soil moisture levels with a soil probe, spade or large screwdriver. You don't need to water if the soil is still moist. If your grass springs back when you step on it, it doesn't need water yet.

If your lawn does require watering, do so early in the morning or later in the evening, when temperatures are cooler.

Water in several short sessions rather than one long one, in order for your lawn to better absorb moisture and avoid runoff.

Use a broom or blower instead of a hose to clean leaves and other debris from your driveway or sidewalk.

Avoid leaving sprinklers or hoses unattended. A garden hose can pour out 600 gallons or more in only a few hours.

In extreme drought, allow lawns to die in favor of preserving trees and large shrubs.

CAR WASHING

Use a commercial car wash that recycles water.

If you wash your own car, use a shut-off nozzle that can be adjusted down to a fine spray on your hose.

Associated Content

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Planning in advance for a drought can protect us in dry years. Learn what to do before, during, and after a drought. Before a Drought During a Drought Associated Content Nearly every part of the U.S. experiences periods of reduced rainfall. Planning in advance for a drought can protect us in dry years.

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Know what disasters and hazards could affect your area, how to get emergency alerts, and where you would go if you and your family need to evacuate. Make sure your family has a plan and practices it often.

Download the FEMA App to get preparedness strategies, real-time weather and emergency alerts.

Order Free Preparedness Materials

Order free preparedness materials from FEMA's online ordering platform. These materials can be shipped directly to you at no cost.

Hazard Information Sheets

Use these two-sided information sheets to learn more about how to prepare for, keep safe during, and respond to hazards. Learn more about the research behind these information sheets on FEMA's Protective Actions Research site.

Are You Ready? Guide

This comprehensive guide provides detailed information on how best to prepare for disasters within families and communities. Learn general disaster preparedness tips and best practices to inform your planning.

Document and Insure Your Property (PDF)

Disasters are a matter of when, not if. Make sure you're prepared by documenting your property and ensuring that you have the insurance coverage you need.

Know Your Alerts and Warnings (PDF)

When disaster strikes, know who to turn to for updates, alerts, and warnings. This guide outlines the U.S. alert and warning systems and the information you can expect to receive from each source.

A Guide for Alerts and Warnings (PDF)

Learn what to do when you get a hazard alert at home or in the car! The Guide for Alerts and Warnings has information about 17 hazards, their alerts, and the protective actions you can take to stay safe.

Safeguard Critical Documents and Valuables (PDF)

Be prepared for any disaster by safeguarding documents and valuables. This guide includes a checklist to help you prepare your documents should you need to file an insurance claim after a disaster.

12 Ways to Prepare (PDF)

This 9" x 6" cardstock postcard describes 12 key ways that you can prepare for disasters. Just add a USPS mailing sticker to the back to send to community members.

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Know what disasters and hazards could affect your area, how to get emergency alerts, and where you would go if you and your family need to evacuate. Know what disasters and hazards could affect your area, how to get emergency alerts, and where you would go if you and your family need to evacuate.

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When emergencies strike, public safety officials use timely and reliable systems to alert you. This page describes different warning alerts you can get and how to get them.

Wireless Emergency Alerts (WEAs)

Wireless Emergency Alerts (WEAs) are short emergency messages from authorized federal, state, local, tribal and territorial public alerting authorities that can be broadcast from cell towers to any WEA‐enabled mobile device in a locally targeted area. WEAs can be sent by state and local public safety officials, the National Weather Service, the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children and the President of the United States.

WEAs look like text messages but are designed to get your attention with a unique sound and vibration repeated twice.

WEAs are no more than 360 characters and include the type and time of the alert, any action you should take and the agency issuing the alert.

WEAs are not affected by network congestion and will not disrupt texts, calls or data sessions that are in progress.

You are not charged for receiving WEAs and there is no need to subscribe.

If you are not receiving WEAs here are some tips to troubleshoot your mobile device:

1. Check the settings on your mobile device and review your user manual (you may be able to find this online too).

Older phones may not be WEA capable, and some cell phone models require you to enable WEAs.

Some mobile service providers call these messages "Government Alerts," or "Emergency Alert Messages."

2. Check with your wireless provider to see if they can resolve the issue.

To provide comments or concerns about WEAs sent in your area contact local officials directly.

Emergency Alert System (EAS)

The Emergency Alert System (EAS) is a national public warning system that allows the president to address the nation within 10 minutes during a national emergency. State and local authorities may also use the system to deliver important emergency information such as weather information, imminent threats, AMBER alerts and local incident information targeted to specific areas.

NOAA Weather Radio (NWR)

NOAA Weather Radio All Hazards (NWR) is a nationwide network of radio stations that broadcast continuous weather information from the nearest National Weather Service office based on your physical location.

FEMA Mobile App

The FEMA App allows you to receive real-time weather and emergency alerts, send notifications to loved ones, locate emergency shelters in your area, get preparedness strategies and more.

Related Content

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This page describes the different warning alerts you can get when emergencies strike and how to get them. Wireless Emergency Alerts Emergency Alert System NOAA Weather Radio FEMA Mobile App Related Content When emergencies strike, public safety officials use timely and reliable systems to alert you.

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Make a plan today. Your family may not be together if a disaster strikes, so it is important to know which types of disasters could affect your area. Know how you'll contact one another and reconnect if separated. Establish a family meeting place that's familiar and easy to find.

Step 1: Put a plan together by discussing the questions below with your family, friends or household to start your emergency plan.

1. How will I receive emergency alerts and warnings?

2. What is my shelter plan?

3. What is my evacuation route?

4. What is my family/household communication plan?

5. Do I need to update my emergency preparedness kit?

Step 2: Consider specific needs in your household.

As you prepare your plan tailor your plans and supplies to your specific daily living needs and responsibilities. Discuss your needs and responsibilities and how people in the network can assist each other with communication, care of children, business, pets or specific needs like operating medical equipment. Create your own personal network for specific areas where you need assistance. Keep in mind some these factors when developing your plan:

Different ages of members within your household

Responsibilities for assisting others

Locations frequented

Dietary needs

Medical needs including prescriptions and equipment

Disabilities or access and functional needs including devices and equipment

Languages spoken

Cultural and religious considerations

Pets or service animals

Households with school-aged children

Step 3: Fill out a Family Emergency Plan

Download and fill out a family emergency plan or use it as a guide to create your own.

Step 4: Practice your plan with your family/household

Preparedness Materials

Additional Content

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Learn how to make a family emergency communication plan. Make a plan today. Your family may not be together if a disaster strikes, so it is important to know which types of disasters could affect your area. Know how you'll contact one another and reconnect if separated.

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After an emergency, you may need to survive on your own for several days. Being prepared means having your own , and other to last for several days. A disaster supplies kit is a collection of basic items your household may need in the event of an emergency.

Make sure your emergency kit is stocked with the items on the checklist below. Download a printable version to take with you to the store. Once you take a look at the basic items consider what unique needs your family might have, such as supplies for pets or seniors.

Emergency Supply List

Basic Disaster Supplies Kit

To assemble your kit store items in airtight plastic bags and put your entire disaster supplies kit in one or two easy-to-carry containers such as plastic bins or a duffel bag.

A basic emergency supply kit could include the following recommended items:

Water (one gallon per person per day for several days, for drinking and sanitation)

Food (at least a several-day supply of non-perishable food)

Battery-powered or hand crank radio and a NOAA Weather Radio with tone alert

Flashlight

First aid kit

Extra batteries

Whistle (to signal for help)

Dust mask (to help filter contaminated air)

Plastic sheeting and duct tape (to shelter in place)

Moist towelettes, garbage bags and plastic ties (for personal sanitation)

Wrench or pliers (to turn off utilities)

Manual can opener (for food)

Local maps

Cell phone with chargers and a backup battery

Additional Emergency Supplies

Consider adding the following items to your emergency supply kit based on your individual needs:

Soap, hand sanitizer and disinfecting wipes to disinfect surfaces

Prescription medications. About half of all Americans take a prescription medicine every day. An emergency can make it difficult for them to refill their prescription or to find an open pharmacy. Organize and protect your prescriptions, over-the-counter drugs, and vitamins to prepare for an emergency.

Non-prescription medications such as pain relievers, anti-diarrhea medication, antacids or laxatives

Prescription eyeglasses and contact lens solution

Infant formula, bottles, diapers, wipes and diaper rash cream

Pet food and extra water for your pet

Cash or traveler's checks

Important family documents such as copies of insurance policies, identification and bank account records saved electronically or in a waterproof, portable container

Sleeping bag or warm blanket for each person

Complete change of clothing appropriate for your climate and sturdy shoes

Fire extinguisher

Matches in a waterproof container

Feminine supplies and personal hygiene items

Mess kits, paper cups, plates, paper towels and plastic utensils

Paper and pencil

Books, games, puzzles or other activities for children

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These resources teach you to build an emergency kit filled with the items you need to survive on your own for several days after a disaster. After an emergency, you may need to survive on your own for several days. Being prepared means having your own food, water and other supplies to last for several days.

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Phoenix, AZ, is no stranger to dramatic weather phenomena, and one of the most striking is the haboob-a powerful dust storm that can envelop the desert landscape in a matter of minutes. These powerful storms can envelop homes in thick layers of dust, leading to significant damage to property and posing serious health risks. Understanding how to prepare and protect your home from the effects of haboobs is crucial in our desert environment, where these storms can strike with little warning. Read on to explore essential strategies to help safeguard your home and minimize the impact of these formidable dust storms.

What Is a Haboob? Understanding the Phoenix Dust Storm

A haboob is a type of intense dust storm that frequently occurs in arid regions, particularly in the deserts of the Southwest United States, including Phoenix, AZ. The term "haboob" comes from the Arabic word meaning "blasting" or "drifting," which aptly describes the force and movement of these storms. These storms are a hallmark of desert climates, where dry, loose soil and strong winds combine to create a powerful natural spectacle.

Haboobs typically form as a result of thunderstorms. When a thunderstorm collapses, it generates a downdraft that pushes a massive wall of dust and debris ahead of it. This wall can soar to heights between 5,000 and 10,000 feet and travel at speeds of up to 60 miles per hour. The sheer force of the descending air lifts and propels dust from the ground, creating a dense, swirling mass that can dramatically reduce visibility and impact everything in its path. In Phoenix, haboobs are a regular occurrence, especially during the monsoon season, which runs from June to September. These dust storms can lead to several issues, including property damage, as dust can infiltrate homes, clog HVAC systems, and cause wear and tear on building materials.

Securing Windows and Doors

When a haboob strikes, windows and doors are particularly vulnerable to dust and damage. To protect them, install storm shutters or use plywood to shield glass from intense winds and debris. Ensure the plywood is securely attached and covers the entire area for effective protection. Additionally, improve weather-stripping and seals around windows and doors to prevent dust infiltration, which can harm electronics, furniture, and HVAC systems. Address any gaps or worn seals to keep your home as dust-free as possible during and after the storm.

Protecting Outdoor Areas

Outdoor furniture, grills, and decorative items can become dangerous projectiles during a haboob, especially in Phoenix, where the winds can be incredibly strong. To prevent these items from causing damage or becoming hazards, anchor or store them away before the storm hits. Lightweight objects are especially vulnerable, so consider using weights or ties to secure them, or moving them into a garage or shed if possible.

Protecting your HVAC system from dust damage is crucial for maintaining comfort in Phoenix's extreme heat. During a haboob, dust can clog outdoor HVAC units, reducing their efficiency and potentially causing costly repairs. Use protective covers specifically designed for HVAC systems to keep dust and debris at bay. These covers help shield the unit from dust infiltration, ensuring that your system remains operational and efficient. After a haboob, regularly inspect and clean the unit to remove any dust that may have accumulated despite the cover.

Preparing Your Home's Interior

One of the most effective ways to manage dust during a haboob is to ensure that your air filtration system is up to the task. Invest in high-quality air filters for your HVAC system and make it a habit to change them regularly, especially during haboob season. The purpose of these filters is to trap fine dust particles that may enter your home, thereby enhancing the quality of your indoor air. Regular filter maintenance not only helps to keep dust out, but it also ensures that your HVAC system operates efficiently, providing clean air and reducing potential respiratory issues.

Creating a designated dust-free zone in your home can be a lifesaver during a haboob. Select a room that you can easily seal off with tightly fitting windows and doors. This room will serve as a refuge from the storm, especially for individuals with asthma, allergies, or other respiratory conditions. To keep this space as clean and dust-free as possible, seal any gaps around windows and doors. Equip the room with essential supplies such as water, medications, and a battery-powered radio or flashlight.

Cleaning Up After a Haboob

Following a haboob, cleaning up dust that has entered your home is a top priority. Start by using damp cloths to wipe down all surfaces. This method helps capture dust rather than just moving it around. For carpets, upholstery, and other fabric surfaces, use a HEPA vacuum cleaner. The purpose of HEPA filters is to trap fine dust particles and stop their recirculation into the air. Don't forget to clean your air ducts and HVAC filters, too. Dust can clog these systems, diminishing indoor air quality and potentially causing mechanical issues. To maintain a healthy indoor environment, make sure to thoroughly clean or replace both.

After clearing the dust, thoroughly inspect your property to find any damage the haboob may have caused. Check for broken windows, damaged roofs, or clogged gutters. Dust and debris can lead to structural issues or blockages that might not be immediately visible. Pay attention to any signs of leaks or unusual wear and tear on your property. Early detection of damage can prevent more serious issues down the line.

When to Call Professionals

After a severe haboob, it's essential to contact a professional cleanup service like ServiceMaster All Care Restoration - Phoenix for thorough cleaning and damage repair. While you can handle some immediate dust removal, professionals have the specialized equipment and expertise to address fine dust in hard-to-reach areas and prevent secondary issues like mold or HVAC malfunctions.

For expert restoration tailored to Phoenix's unique conditions, trust our local team to restore your home to its pre-storm condition. Contact ServiceMaster All Care Restoration - Phoenix today to ensure your home is effectively cleaned and repaired.

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Protect Your Home from Haboob (Dust Storm) Damage in Phoenix

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In Phoenix, haboobs-massive dust storms-can strike quickly and cause serious damage. Learn how to protect and clean up your home after these intense storms.

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Dust storms and Haboobs can occur anywhere in the United States but are most common in the Southwest. Haboobs occur as a result of thunderstorm outflow winds. Strong thunderstorm winds can start a dust storm that can drastically reduce visibility. Your NWS Forecast Office will issue a Dust Storm Warning if one is happening in your area.

Motorists Beware!

A dust storm usually arrives suddenly in the form of an advancing wall of dust and debris which may be miles long and several thousand feet high. They strike with little warning, making driving conditions hazardous. Blinding, choking dust can quickly reduce visibility, causing accidents that may involve chain collisions, creating massive pileups. Dust storms usually last only a few minutes, but the actions a motorist takes during the storm may be the most important of his or her life.

Dust Storm Safety Tips

If dense dust is observed blowing across or approaching a roadway, pull your vehicle off the pavement as far as possible, stop, turn off lights, set the emergency brake, take your foot off of the brake pedal to be sure the tail lights are not illuminated.

Don't enter the dust storm area if you can avoid it.

If you can't pull off the roadway, proceed at a speed suitable for visibility, turn on lights and sound horn occasionally. Use the painted center line to help guide you. Look for a safe place to pull off the roadway.

Never stop on the traveled portion of the roadway.

Lights Out!

In the past, motorists driving in dust storms have pulled off the roadway, leaving lights on. Vehicles approaching from the rear and using the advance car's lights as a guide have inadvertently left the roadway and in some instances collided with the parked vehicle. Make sure all of your lights are off when you park off the roadway.

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Dust storms and Haboobs can occur anywhere in the United States but are most common in the Southwest. Haboobs occur as a result of thunderstorm outflow winds. Strong thunderstorm winds can start a dust storm that can drastically reduce visibility. Your NWS Forecast Office will issue a Dust Storm Warning if one is happening in your area.

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Watermaster Irrigation Supply Inc. - Get help from the ones that help the pros

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What To Do After a Dust Storm for Your Garden and Property in Lubbock, TX - Watermaster Irrigation Supply Inc.

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Lubbock, Texas, is no stranger to dust storms. While these natural phenomena may be mesmerizing, they can wreak havoc on your garden and property. As a trusted irrigation and gardening expert in Lubbock, Watermaster Irrigation guides you on what to do after a dust storm to restore and protect your garden and property. Assess the

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Sand and Dust Storms: Impacts and Mitigation | EcoMENA

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The effects of sand and dust storms can be reduced by using a number of health and safety measures and environmental control strategies. Read on to know more:

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Heat waves are anything but fun in the sun. Extreme heat and humidity can be extremely uncomfortable and pose serious health risks, especially for infants, children, pregnant women and the elderly. Without taking the proper precautions, extreme heat can lead to heat stroke and even worse, fatality. As a result of climate change, heat waves are becoming longer, more frequent and more severe.

Here are some expert tips to help keep your family safe during a heat wave, how to recognize signs of heat stroke and what actions you should take if needed.

Know the facts
Dos and don'ts in a heat wave
Recognize the symptoms of heatstroke
How to treat heatstroke

What is a heat wave?

Heat waves happen when the temperature is higher than normal for several days in a row. Humidity can cause it to feel much hotter.

What causes a heat wave?

Heat waves result from warm air being trapped in the atmosphere and are a natural weather phenomenon. Heat waves are increasing in intensity and frequency due to climate change, resulting from greenhouse gas emissions, that is trapping heat for longer.

>> Read: How to talk to your child about climate change

Who's most at risk from heat waves?

Too much heat is dangerous for everyone's health. Infants, children, pregnant women and the elderly are especially vulnerable to heat stress.

Too much heat can be more dangerous for babies and children than for adults, and dehydration in children can be dangerous or even deadly. Children's bodies have more trouble regulating temperature than those of adults, and they rely on adults to help protect them from heat.

Pregnant women are at greater risk as well. Too much heat and dehydration can put the baby at higher risk of low birthweight, early birth and even stillbirth. Pregnant women themselves can be negatively affected and go into early labour, as well as develop gestational diabetes and hypertension.

Be prepared

Know how hot and humid it is going to get today, this week and this month to help plan outside activities.

Keep an emergency kit at home that contains oral rehydration salt (ORS) packets, a thermometer, water bottles, towels or cloths to wet for cooling, a handheld fan or mister with batteries, and a checklist to identify and treat symptoms of heat stress.

Know how to get help. Note down the contact information for the nearest health care provider or ambulance/transport services.

Keep your home cool

When possible, close the curtains during the hottest parts of the day and open windows at night time to cool down the house.

Use fans and coolers if available.

Stay out of the heat

Do not go outside during the hottest times of the day if you can avoid it. Try to arrange your activities earlier or later in the day when it is cooler.

When outside, wear sunscreen and try to stay in the shade or use hats and umbrellas for protection.

Stay cool and hydrated

Drink water at regular intervals before you are thirsty.

Overdressing in the heat can make you dehydrated and hotter faster, so wear light and loose clothes. Cotton is ideal during hot days to help reduce heat rashes and absorb sweating. Similarly, cotton bed sheets are recommended over non-breathable materials.

Carry a water bottle and a small towel, so you can hydrate and cool down by placing a wet towel on your neck.

Check to see if your community has a heat relief or cooling centre near you. You could also use the waiting areas of health facilities as a temporary cooling shelter.

Tips for infants, children and pregnant women

DO check regularly if your child is thirsty, sweating, feeling hot, vomiting, has a dry and sticky mouth, or experiencing headaches. If your child is not responding properly, has a high fever, is dizzy or is breathing fast, take them to the health facility immediately.

DO NOT give infants medication if they are showing signs of being overheated without consulting a health provider.

DO NOT leave infants and children in closed spaces without ventilation, such as cars or rooms with closed windows.

DO NOT let your children play outside for long hours when it is hot and without keeping an eye on them. Have them rest every 30 minutes when exercising or playing outside. Exercising or playing in high temperatures can lead to dehydration and serious consequences quickly.

DO make sure that your child is clothed loosely - this can help prevent heat rashes and becoming too hot.

DO check that your child is well hydrated. They may not know what dehydration and heat stress feel like. Breastfeed infants under 6 months exclusively. Breastfeeding mothers should drink plenty of water as dehydration can affect breastmilk production.​ Children aged 6 months and over should drink water regularly throughout the day.

DO schedule medical visits and any tasks for when it is less hot in the day to prevent exposure to yourself and your unborn baby.

DO sleep in cooler areas, such as on the lower floors of the building, when possible.

DO NOT do too much activity when it is hot outside. Try to avoid going out if it is over 40 °C/104 °F. It is important to rest when possible and share workloads with others. Pregnant women can exercise with low or moderate intensity as long as they feel comfortable and are hydrating and resting properly.​

Severe symptoms of heat stress require urgent care.

If a family member is presenting any of the severe symptoms below you should call for an ambulance or arrange for another form of transport to a health facility immediately.

Trust your instincts and don't hesitate to call for medical assistance.

Parenting tips direct to your inbox

Expert advice, interesting insights and fun facts.

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Learn how to help keep your children and family safe in extreme heat

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Steps That Can Be Taken to Protect Crops During a Heat Wave

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Heatwaves pose a significant risk to global food production, necessitating proactive measures to safeguard crops. Here’s what you need to know.

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Caring for your plants in extreme heat: When to water, how to prevent sunburn

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Metro Phoenix’s extreme heat can damage or kill your plants. Here’s what to do to keep your trees alive, with some advice from Moon Valley Nursery.

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Buildings In Earthquakes—How it's constructed impacts what you feel (educational)

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What Makes These 3 Buildings Earthquake-Proof?

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Protect Your Home from Wildfire | Top 3 Tips

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Landslide Mitigation Techniques - Pile Buck Magazine

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View the complete article here. Landslides kill 30-50 people each year in the United States. According to the U.S. Geological Survey (USGS), they also result in 3 billion dollars in damage annually. Construction managers should be aware of what causes landslides and what can be done to prevent them. We will cover the different types…

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Landslides can range from minor inconveniences that leave debris on your property to major accidents that can cause severe damage. Naturally, if you live in a landslide-prone area, you'd want to do all you can to protect your property....

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AlSyed Construction Company Gujrat, Pakistan

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Building a Tornado-Proof House: Our Comprehensive Guide

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When it comes to building a tornado-proof house, meticulous planning and robust construction techniques are paramount. While no structure can be entirely impervious to the forces of nature