Hazard Guides

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Know the Risks. Be Ready.

Every community faces different hazards throughout the year. Knowing what to do before, during, and after an emergency can help protect you, your family, and your property.

Select a hazard below to learn how to prepare, stay safe, and recover after an emergency.

Download Printable Hazard Guides (PDF)

🔥 Fire

Whether it's a home fire or grassland wildfire, fires can spread quickly.

Learn about:

  • Creating a home fire escape plan
  • Smoke alarms and fire extinguishers
  • Wildfire preparedness
  • Evacuation tips
  • Returning home safely

Remember: Get out, stay out, and call 911.

❄️ Blizzard & Winter Storms

South Dakota winters can bring heavy snow, ice, dangerous wind chills, and whiteout conditions.

Learn about:

  • Winter emergency kits
  • Safe travel
  • Staying warm during power outages
  • Preventing frostbite and hypothermia
  • Snow removal safety

Remember: If you don't have to travel, stay home.

🌊 Flooding

Floodwaters can rise quickly and become extremely dangerous.

Learn about:

  • Flood watches vs. warnings
  • Protecting your home
  • Evacuation planning
  • Safe cleanup after flooding
  • Flood insurance information

Remember: Turn Around, Don't Drown®.

⛈️ Severe Thunderstorms

Thunderstorms can produce damaging winds, hail, lightning, and tornadoes.

Learn about:

  • Severe weather alerts
  • Lightning safety
  • Protecting your property
  • What to do indoors and outdoors

Remember: When thunder roars, go indoors.

🌪️ Tornadoes

Tornadoes can develop quickly with little warning.

Learn about:

  • Finding safe shelter
  • Warning sirens
  • Emergency kits
  • Mobile home safety
  • Recovery after a tornado

Remember: Go to the lowest level and stay away from windows.

🌬️ High Winds

Strong winds can damage buildings, knock down trees, and create dangerous driving conditions.

Learn about:

  • Securing outdoor items
  • Driving safely
  • Power outage preparation
  • Tree hazards

⚡ Power Outages

Power outages can occur during any emergency.

Learn about:

  • Food safety
  • Generator safety
  • Staying warm or cool
  • Backup lighting
  • Charging devices

🌡️ Extreme Heat

Heat is one of the leading weather-related causes of death.

Learn about:

  • Heat exhaustion vs. heat stroke
  • Staying hydrated
  • Cooling centers
  • Protecting children and pets

🧊 Extreme Cold

Dangerous cold can cause frostbite and hypothermia in minutes.

Learn about:

  • Dressing in layers
  • Home heating safety
  • Carbon monoxide prevention
  • Protecting livestock and pets

🦠 Public Health Emergencies

Illness outbreaks and other health emergencies require preparation.

Learn about:

  • Staying informed
  • Vaccinations
  • Hygiene
  • Caring for family members
  • Emergency supplies

🚜 Agricultural Emergencies

Living in a rural county means preparing for agricultural emergencies.

Learn about:

  • Livestock evacuation
  • Farm equipment safety
  • Chemical spills
  • Rural wildfire response

📻 Emergency Alerts

Know where to get trusted information during an emergency.

  • Wireless Emergency Alerts
  • NOAA Weather Radio
  • Local emergency notifications
  • County social media
  • Local radio stations

Before, During & After Any Emergency

No matter the emergency:

✅ Stay informed.
✅ Have an emergency kit ready.
✅ Know your evacuation routes.
✅ Follow instructions from local officials.
✅ Check on neighbors who may need assistance.