Austin’s Office of Homeland Security and Emergency Management (HSEM) plans and prepares for all types of disasters and emergencies the City may face. From flooding to wildfires to summer heat to winter’s chill, HSEM works with other departments and emergency personnel to a plan for response, recovery, and mitigation.
We can build a more resilient community if we all prepare in advance and take precautions to ensure our homes, families, and friends are ready for the next emergency. Below are materials and tools to help you prepared as well as plans the City’s basic emergency plan.
City of Austin Emergency Operations Basic Plan
Download the City of Austin Emergency Operations Basic Plan (updated October 2024)
State of Texas Emergency Assistance Registry
Not every Texan has the means to prepare for an emergency on their own. For anyone who may need assistance during an emergency event, the State of Texas Emergency Assistance Registry (STEAR) provides local emergency planners and emergency responders with additional needs members of their community may have.
Registering in STEAR is voluntary and DOES NOT guarantee you will receive specific service during an emergency because available services may vary by community or the severity of the emergency.
The Texas Department of Emergency Management has multiple ways to register for STEAR on its website. Please visit the site to determine which method is best to register yourself, a family member, or friend.
People who should register for STEAR are those who:
- have disabilities
- are medically fragile
- have access and functional needs such as:
- limited mobility
- communication barriers
- require additional medical assistance during an emergency event
- require transportation assistance
- require personal care assistance.
Registering for STEAR is free, voluntary, and does not guarantee assistance in an emergency. By registering in STEAR you are consenting to sharing your information with first responders and other state agencies during a disaster. Registering with STEAR will help first responders better prepare to serve you and your community in the event of an emergency.
Weather Tips from Austin Water
Austin Water urges customers to take steps now to prepare for freezing temperatures. While Austinites often enjoy mild winters, Winter Storm Uri of February 2021 demonstrated that we must prepare for more severe and prolonged freezing weather.
Power Outage Safety Tips from Austin Energy
Power outages are the result of a variety of causes — anything from traffic accidents, wildlife interference, and severe weather. They can occur on the brightest of sunny days and during our sudden, and sometimes severe, Central Texas thunderstorms. Follow these power outage safety tips to stay safe during an outage.
Flood Safety Resources
Austin is in the heart of Flash Flood Alley. Use these flood safety resource links to help protect yourself, your family, and your property from floods.
Resources for Minor Home Repairs
Austinites whose homes present health or safety hazards may need financial assistance. These grants for minor home repairs help eligible homeowners make critical and necessary repairs. Minor Home Repair Grants are up to $5,000 per home.
Small Business Preparedness Resources
Small businesses can get prepared for any major event with these resources. By taking small steps to create a preparedness plan, Austin small businesses can be ready for an event that severely disrupts operations, such as extended power outages, pandemics, or natural disasters.