Some buildings with fire damage.

Preparedness for Faith-Based Communities

Baytown, TX, September 28, 2008 -- Members of the American Red Cross working side by side with the North Carolina Baptist Men Convention (in yellow shirts) to distribute meals to local residents recovering from Hurricane Ike. These mobile kitchens are capable of serving 70,000 meals per day; two weeks after the storm 7000 meals/day are still being served. Mike Moore/FEMANational Disaster Interfaiths Network (NDIN)
NDIN is a national network of disaster interfaith organizations working together to reduce disaster-caused human suffering through the exchange of information and cooperative support.  As part of their “Be a Ready Congregation” campaign, NDIN created a host of free, downloadable tip sheets offering all-hazards best practices and resource links about disaster mitigation, preparedness, response, and recovery – specifically relevant to religious leaders, faith communities and faith-based organizations.

See this list of tip sheets for information on available training:
Disaster Tips Sheets for Faith Community Partners Sheltering & Mass Care

Faith-Based and Volunteer Partnership Resources
Fires, tornadoes, floods, hurricanes, earthquakes, arson and active shooters can affect any house of worship. Training and planning exercises may enhance the disaster preparedness of the voluntary, faith-based, and community partner organizations, staff and volunteers. Incidents often occur with little to no warning. Updating plans and procedures to ensure the safety and security of their congregations, staff, and facilities offers critical support.

Planning for Faith-Based Organizations
When disaster strikes, houses of worship become safe havens in the neighborhood. Help ensure that everyone including churches, synagogues, mosques, temples, and community-based organizations are prepared. See resources from Orange County, California’s emergency preparedness program.

Faith Based-Preparedness by Ready Illinois
Find a comprehensive set of resources for congregation preparedness along with links to preparedness tips for faith leaders.