List the disasters that are most likely to occur in your area. For each type of disaster, identify specific response actions that would be needed. (For example, in a disaster that can damage homes—such as an earthquake, fire, flood, or hurricane—a key action would be to find temporary shelter for displaced families.)

Communication is essential in emergency response. Part of being able to communicate... is having the appropriate contact and resource information. Gather and maintain [hard copies of] this critical information to enhance "needs assessment" and response... Update it regularly.

Plan how the ward or stake council will organize and carry out each of the tasks, identify who will be responsible for each task and how the tasks will be accomplished. Designate a primary and alternate location where council members will gather after an emergency to direct relief efforts.

Refer to your worksheets to plan for communication disruptions. Use the Critical Information—Equipment, Skills, and Communication Resources to determine how you will communicate in a disaster and what methods you will use.

The ward or stake emergency preparedness plan is complete only when members are familiar with it and implement it. Review the plan with ward or stake members, and encourage them to personally engage in preparedness efforts, such as creating their own family preparedness plans and participating in community preparedness events. Wards and stakes are strengthened when members are prepared for disasters and disruptions. Consider inviting members to... better prepare them for emergencies, and aid in community relief efforts.

Emergency Response follows Preparedness... Elder L. Tom Perry taught, “The need for preparation is abundantly clear. The great blessing of being prepared gives us freedom from fear”. Coordination of response efforts may include providing resources from the Church’s Welfare, Meetinghouse Facilities, and Public Affairs Departments as well as resources available in the greater community. The Stake President reports to the Area Seventy (who is chairman of the Coordinating Council). The seven Presidents of the Seventy and the Presiding Bishopric approve all emergency response expenditures.