Get Prepared

Whether it's during severe weather awareness week or not, being prepared for a disaster or emergency is everyone's responsibility. 

  1. Build a Kit – Everyone should have an emergency supply kit.  The kit should have enough food, water and supplies to last you and your family 3-7 days. 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.
  2. Make a Plan – Talk with your family about what you would do in an emergency situation. Determine how you will contact one another if you are separated. Ensure each member of your family has access to important phone numbers.  Be able to turn off the water, gas, and electricity at the main switches if necessary. Talk with your family about evacuation and shelter locations within your home, school, or place of business.
  3. Stay Informed - Emergency Management and Public Safety officials issue important information that can not only help you protect your property but save your life.  Ensure you have multiple ways to receive emergency alerts.  If you have a residential landline or a cell phone that is billed within the City of Southlake, you are automatically added to our Alert Southlake Notification System. You can always tailor the alerts to your specific needs; utilize the Alert Southlake tab to create or modify your account.

Get Prepared - State of Texas Emergency Assistance Registry (STEAR)

In the event of an emergency, some individuals may need additional assistance leaving their homes, or responding to emergency conditions by themselves. The State of Texas Emergency Assistance Registry (STEAR) allows residents to provide information on their specific situations to emergency management officials. This information aids in safe evacuation or appropriate life-sustaining help they need in a disaster. This information also helps emergency planners as they develop plans and procedures for assisting residents during emergencies. 

Who Should Register?

Any resident may register for the STEAR program if they have any condition, healthcare need, or situation that would require additional assistance during an emergency. Some examples include people who:

  • Don't speak English well, or have any kind of disability which keeps them from communicating easily.
  • Individuals who may need transportation assistance during an evacuation.
  • Require electricity for life-sustaining equipment (such as life support machines, electric wheelchairs, or are insulin-dependent and require refrigeration)

You may complete registration forms for individuals who may not be able to complete the form themselves. Be sure to obtain their permission first.

Please note that registration with STEAR does not guarantee any delivery of services by responders, and should not replace developing your own emergency plan.

How Do I Register?

There are three ways to sign up for the STEAR Program:

  • Register Online - The fastest and easiest way for an individual to register for evacuation assistance.
  • Call 2-1-1 - A trained telephone operator will be able to take your information in minutes.
  • Call the Southlake Office of Emergency Management.

State of Texas Emergency Assistance Registry

State of Texas Emergency Assistnace Registry

Get Prepared - Evacuations

A wide variety of emergencies may cause an evacuation. You may have a day or two to prepare in some instances, while other situations might call for an immediate evacuation. Planning is vital to ensuring that you can evacuate quickly and safely, no matter the circumstances. Download our guide and place it in your emergency kit. It's just one more way you can be prepared before, during, and after an evacuation. 

Evacuation Guide

A downloadable evacuation guide.

Get Prepared - Shelter in Place


Taking shelter is critical in times of disaster. Before disaster strikes, take some time to identify safe locations. Think about safe places at home, work, and some other locations you frequent. For example, if you spend a lot of time at the park, make sure you know where the safe spot is. Download our guide before an emergency to locate your best shelter in place locations. 

Shelter In Place

Shelter in Place 24x36

Get Ready Resources for Businesses, Pets, Kids, and Vulnerable Populations

Preparedness for Pets and Animals

Image is of a Red Cross publication for Pets and Disaster Safety Checklist

Preparedness for Functional and Access Needs

Image shows a FEMA publication with the words "Preparing for Disaster for People with Disabilitie

Preparedness for Kids

Image shows a publication for kids "Be A Hero" from ready.gov

Get Prepared for Businesses

Graphic is blue and shows the letters OFB-EZ and represents Stay Open for Business
  1. Amanda Meneses

    Emergency Manager