Your Guide to
Emergency Preparedness

published by

Northern Virginia Regional Commission

(Full Version with graphics in Adobe format)

 

Dear Neighbors:

It has been over fifteen months since the direct attack on the Pentagon in Arlington, Virginia. Since that time bioterrorist threats, sniper attacks and mosquito viruses have made us all keenly aware of the need to be prepared in case of emergency. Local governments are working together in Northern Virginia to update plans and provide information to you in the event of an emergency. The events of the past year remind us all that home emergency preparedness is a must for everyone and should be carefully planned. This Guide to Emergency Preparedness is designed to help you do just that. It does not cover every conceivable emergency. However, it does offer information and resources to help you plan for most emergency situations. I hope you find it helpful.

Scott K. York
Chairman, Northern Virginia Regional Commission

Preparing for an Emergency

Emergency events can occur quickly and without warning. Planning for any emergency requires considering all likely scenarios. If you are able to stay at home, electricity, water, heat, air conditioning, telephone service and transportation could be disrupted or lost for a considerable amount of time. Most emergency management planners suggest having enough food, water, medications and other essentials on hand to last your family for three to five days for weather related events, for example. In other types of emergencies, you may have to evacuate your home or community. In any case, it is important to develop a household emergency preparedness plan that includes:

• An emergency preparedness kit.
• An escape plan that includes at least two emergency meeting places. Pick one right outside your home in case of a sudden emergency, such as fire. Pick at least one other place outside your neighborhood in case you cannot return home.
• An emergency communications plan. Choose an out-of-town person to be your contact point for family members to call if you are separated. Make sure everyone has contact information including telephone numbers and e-mail addresses.
• Information about school and workplace emergency plans.

Your Emergency Preparedness Kit

The basic items that should be stored in your home are water, food, first-aid supplies, an ABC fire extinguisher, clothing and bedding, tools, emergency supplies and specialty items. Keep the items that you would most likely need at home in one easy-to-carry container such as a trash can, plastic storage container, camping backpack or duffel bag. Store it in a convenient place, and put a smaller version in your car. Keep items in airtight plastic bags. Remember to change the stored water and rotate the food supplies every six months (place dates on containers). Check the supplies and re-think your needs every year. Consult your physician or pharmacist about storing prescription medications, and maintain a list of your prescription needs.

Water

Purchase bottled water, or store tap water in clean, airtight plastic containers. Avoid containers that will decompose or break, such as glass bottles. Plan for one gallon of water per person per day. Water should be stored in a cool, dark place with the date labeled on the container. Having some water purification tablets on hand could be useful in the event of an extended water service outage.

Food

Store a three- to five-day supply of nonperishable food per person. Foods should require no refrigeration, preparation, or cooking, and little or no water. Examples include: ready-to-eat canned meats, fruits and vegetables; canned or boxed juices, milk and soup; condiments such as sugar, salt and pepper; high-energy food like peanut butter, jelly, low-sodium crackers, granola bars and trail mix; vitamins; foods for infants or persons on special diets; cookies; hard candy; instant coffee and sweetened cereals. Bulk food items such as wheat, powdered milk, corn and soybeans can be stored for long periods of time.

First-Aid Kit

Assemble a first-aid kit for your home and each vehicle. Items should include sterile adhesive bandages in assorted sizes, gauze pads, hypoallergenic adhesive tape, triangular bandages, sterile gauze roll bandages, Ace bandages, scissors, tweezers, needle, moistened towelettes, antiseptic, thermometer, tongue depressors, tube of.4 petroleum jelly or other lubricant, safety pins, cleansing soap, latex gloves and sunscreen. Other items include aspirin or other pain medication, antidiarrhea medication, Syrup of Ipecac, activated charcoal (in case of poisoning), antacids and laxatives.

Tools and Supplies

Keep the following items handy for all around use: battery powered radio, flashlight, extra batteries of assorted sizes (check shelf life before purchasing), duct tape, aluminum foil, rope, bow saw, mess kits or paper cups, plates and plastic utensils, cash (include change) and/or traveler’s checks, nonelectric can opener and utility knife, small ABC fire extinguisher, tube tent, pliers, adjustable wrench, compass, waterproof matches, plastic storage containers, signal flares, paper and pencil or pen, needles and thread, medicine dropper, whistle, plastic sheeting and local map. For sanitation, pack toilet paper, soap and liquid detergent, feminine supplies, plastic garbage bags with ties, a plastic bucket and lid, disinfectant and household chlorine bleach.

Clothing and Bedding

Assemble one or two complete changes of clothing per person, sturdy shoes or work boots, rain gear, blankets or sleeping bags, hat and gloves, thermal underwear and sunglasses.

Specialty Items

Babies—formula, diapers, bottles, powdered milk and medication.

Adults—medications, prescriptions, denture needs, eyeglasses and/or contact lenses and related supplies, personal hygiene items.

Entertainment—games, books and several quiet toys for children.

Important Family Documents—wills, insurance policies, bank account numbers, contracts, deeds, passports, stocks and bonds, immunization records, important phone numbers, credit card accounts, Social Security cards and other personal family records.

Equipment—NOAA weather radio.

Emergency Planning for Pets

Emergency planning is for all members of the family, including pets. With the exception of service animals, most shelters do not accept pets. Prepare a list of kennels, friends or family members who may be able to care for your pet in an emergency. If you plan to place your pet in a kennel, make sure that the facility meets all requirements for long-term care and has an adequate disaster plan itself. If your family must relocate to a shelter or other site and there is no place for your pet to go, as a last resort, confine your pet to a specific room in the house and provide plenty of food and water to sustain the animal while you are away. Put together a basic disaster kit for your pets to take with you in case you must leave your residence quickly. Recommended items include:

• An airline approved carrier for each dog, cat or other pets
• ID with photo, vaccination records, registrations, special needs list, sufficient medicines, collar and a muzzle/leash.
• An extra supply of pet food
• Plenty of clean water.
• Bowls (disposable containers if you must leave your residence), manual can opener, kitchen trash bags, bleach (disinfectant and water purification), blankets, towels, paper towels and other waste disposal supplies.

For more information on emergency preparedness for pets, call the Humane Society of the United States at 202-452-1100 or visit their Web site at www.hsus.org.

Household and Financial Preparations

Whether you own your home or rent, there are many things you can do to protect your home and possessions. You can increase your safety and reduce your insurance costs by:

Installing safety equipment such as smoke alarms and carbon monoxide alarms to alert you to potentially deadly conditions.

• Securing large or heavy items that could fall and cause damage during storms.
• Covering windows, turning off utilities, or moving possessions to a safer location if you have adequate warning of something like a hurricane or flood.
• Having your house inspected by a building inspector or architect to find out what structural improvements could prevent or reduce major damage from disasters.
• Conducting an inventory of your household possessions to help you catalog what you own for insurance purposes if those possessions are damaged or destroyed and to provide documentation for tax deductions you claim for your losses.
• Make a visual or written record of your possessions. Include photographs of cars, boats, and recreational vehicles. Get professional appraisals of jewelry, collectibles, artwork, or other items that are difficult to value. Update the appraisals every two to three years. Even with adequate time to prepare for a disaster, you still may suffer significant, unavoidable damage to your property. That is when insurance for renters or homeowners can be a big help. Yet, many people affected by recent disasters have been under-insured —or worse—not insured at all. Homeowner’s insurance often does not cover floods and some other major disasters. Make sure you buy the insurance you may need to protect against the perils you may face.
• Making copies of receipts and canceled checks for more valuable items.
• Keeping the originals of all important financial and family documents, such as birth and marriage certificates, wills, deeds, tax returns, insurance policies, and stock and bond certificates in a safe place. Store copies elsewhere. You will need accessible records for tax and insurance purposes.
• Photographing the exterior of your home. Include the landscaping—that big tree in the front yard may not be insurable, but it does increase the value of your property for tax purposes.
• Updating your inventory list annually and putting a copy in a safe place.
• Buying insurance.

Emergency Planning for Businesses

Businesses are just as vulnerable to emergency situations as individuals. Business owners should develop emergency plans for the sake of their employees as well as the survival of their businesses.

Emergency planning includes:

• Maintaining a list of emergency numbers of employees so their families can be contacted if necessary.
• Having a plan in place to evacuate staff and customers quickly and safely. The plan should include a designated meeting place outside the building.
• Practicing the plan with staff.
• Backing up computer data regularly and storing it offsite.
• Purchasing ample insurance coverage to minimize losses.
• Identifying crucial business operations and developing plans to ensure their continuation in the event of an emergency.
• Ensuring local police have up to date emergency contact information for essential personnel.
• Employees need to know what to do in an emergency. The time to think about what you need to do in the event of a disruption to your business is before you face a crisis. Your employees depend on you now for direction and leadership. They will depend on you even more should there be an emergency situation.

Homeland Security

National and Virginia Homeland Security Advisory systems have been put into place to provide a quick and comprehensive way to provide information on warnings and actual events involving terrorist acts that may occur. Five threat conditions have been identified. Each condition is assigned a specific color and includes a description of the category as well as information on specific actions that citizens should take. Threat conditions can be assigned to a specific geographic area or they may be set for the entire Nation. When officials announce a specific alert the appropriate safety instructions for the situation will be given to citizens.

State and local health departments also are preparing for terrorist events. Working under guidance from the Centers for Disease Control, health officials have implemented an enhanced disease surveillance system to rapidly identify any unusual disease events that may be occurring in the state. State and local health departments are working closely with agencies and organizations locally and across the state to develop coordinated response plans for various situations. In case of an attack, pertinent health information would be provided to the public via mass media.

"Your employees depend on you now for direction and leadership. They will depend on you even more should there be an emergency situation."

Reporting Suspicious Activity

Occasionally, the federal government may call for a heightened state of alert on the part of local law enforcement and residents. When the police go to a higher state of alert, they may add extra patrols in various locations, increase staffing, carry extra protective equipment and maintain more frequent communication with federal, state and other local law enforcement agencies. Residents should also increase their awareness of their surroundings and report any suspicious activity to the police. Many people fail to act because they are not sure if what they are observing is worth reporting. When in doubt, call the police immediately. Do not lose precious time discussing the event with friends and neighbors first. Types of activity that residents should report include people, vehicles, or circumstances that appear unusual or out of place, such as:

• A stranger around your neighborhood or a strange vehicle parked in your neighborhood for a long period of time.
• Someone looking into houses or vehicles.
• Recurring appearances of strange vehicles in the neighborhood.
• Someone tampering with the electrical, gas, water, or sewer system without an identifiable company vehicle and uniform.
• An unusually large amount of traffic coming to a house or apartment building.
• Houses or buildings where extreme security measures seem to have been taken.
• Houses or buildings where no owner or primary renter is apparent, and no home activities—yard work, painting, maintenance, etc.—seem to go on.
• Strange odors coming from around houses or buildings.
• Door-to-door solicitors without solicitor permits or any stranger knocking at doors.
• Persons standing around, possibly acting as lookouts.

If you suspect a crime is being or is about to be committed, call 911. Do not panic and do not put yourself at risk. If the activity simply appears suspicious, call the police non-emergency number and describe the activity in detail. You need not give your name in either case. However, if you want a police officer to contact you, be prepared to give your name, address and telephone number, and ask that the officer contact you. This information is kept confidential.

Terrorism

Terrorism is a broad term that describes the use of force or violence against persons or property in violation of the criminal laws of the United States for purposes of intimidation, coercion or ransom. Terrorists often use threats to create fear among the public and to try to convince citizens that their government is powerless to prevent terrorism. The effects of terrorism can include a significant number of casualties, structural damage to buildings, and disruptions in basic services such as electricity, water supply, public transportation, communications and healthcare.

You can prepare to deal with a terrorist incident by adapting many of the same techniques used to prepare for other crises:

• Be alert and aware of the surrounding area. The very nature of terrorism suggests that there may be little or no warning.
• Take precautions when traveling. Be aware of conspicuous or unusual behavior. Do not accept packages from strangers. Do not leave luggage unattended.
• Learn where emergency exits are located. Think ahead about how to evacuate a building, subway or congested public area in a hurry. Learn where staircases are located.
• Notice your immediate surroundings. Be aware of heavy or breakable objects that could move, fall or break in an explosion.

Biological/Chemical Emergencies

A major chemical or biological emergency can happen when hazardous amounts of toxins are released into the environment. You can be exposed to chemical and biological toxins by:

• Inhaling them.
• Swallowing contaminated food, water or medication.
• Touching or coming into contact with contaminated items.

Many times you cannot see or smell anything unusual. In the event of a hazardous chemical or biological emergency, you will be given instructions by authorities. You may be told to evacuate, to move uphill and upwind of the release, to shelter in place, or to go to a designated facility. You may also be in the immediate vicinity of an incident and not realize the danger. If you see people vomiting, in convulsions or acting disoriented, leave the area immediately and seek medical attention. If out of doors, check the wind and walk upwind to evacuate the area.

Handling Mail Safely

The United States Postal Service urges people to report suspicious letters or packages such as mail that:

• Has excessive postage, no postage, or non-canceled postage.
• Has no return address or a fictitious return address.
• Has an improper spelling of addressee names, titles, or locations.
• Looks lumpy or has a lopsided appearance.
• Is sealed with excessive amounts of tape.
• Is unexpected and is from a foreign country.
• Has a postmark showing a different location than the return address.
• Displays distorted handwriting or cut-and-paste lettering.

If you receive a suspicious letter or package:

• Do not open it.
• Do not shake, bump or sniff it.
• Cover it or place it in a plastic bag.
• Wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water.
• Call the police non-emergency number.

In most cases the police will be dispatched for a report of an unopened suspicious letter or package and after investigating the item, will advise you what to do. If the letter or package does not meet specific criteria, they may simply advise you to dispose of the suspicious letter or package if you are uncomfortable opening it. The fire department will respond to reports of suspicious substances for evaluation and proper disposal. When in doubt, however, call the police non-emergency number or 911.

Emergency Shelter

When conditions warrant, local officials may instruct residents to seek shelter in their homes or officials may establish community-based shelters for local residents. Normally, shelters are set up in public schools, recreation centers or other appropriate facilities where residents can seek refuge as well as sleep and eat. Persons needing shelter are asked to bring a change of clothing, bathing and sanitary supplies, prefilled prescription and other medical needs, denture and eye care materials, and special dietary supplies or requirements. With the exception of service animals, pets are generally not permitted in the shelters. If local officials advise you to "shelter in place," they mean for you to remain indoors and protect yourself there. Take your children and pets indoors immediately. Get your disaster supplies kit, and make sure the radio is working. Go to an interior room without windows. In the case of a chemical threat, an aboveground location is preferable because some chemicals are heavier than air, and may seep into basements even if the windows are closed. While gathering your family, you should:

Close all windows, exterior doors and fireplace dampers.

• Turn off all fans, heating, and air conditioning systems.
• Wet some towels and jam them in the cracks under the doors.
• Tape around the doors, windows, exhaust fans and vents.
• Use plastic garbage bags to cover windows, outlets, and heat registers.
• Close the window shades, blinds or curtains if you are told there is a danger of explosion.
• Stay inside and keep listening to your radio or television until you are told all is safe or you are told to evacuate.

When Electrical Power is Lost

Disruption of electrical service can occur as a result of many things, including lightning, high winds, ice and heavy snow, and equipment failure. For the most part, service is normally restored within a short period. However, major power outages can happen for extended periods from time to time. When power is lost, you should:

• Check to see if your neighbors have power. The power loss may be only in your home, due to a blown fuse or a tripped circuit.
• If your neighbors also are without service, call your local power company (see page 15). If you must go outside to assess the situation, take a flashlight and watch for downed power lines that could still be energized. If downed lines are located, do not go near them or touch anything that they may be in contact with. Report downed power lines immediately.
• Use flashlights or battery-operated lanterns for lighting. Candles and kerosene lanterns are not recommended for lighting because of fire hazards.
• Turn off all major appliances. When major appliances—refrigerators, electric water heaters, air conditioners and pumps—are left on, they could overload electric lines when power is restored causing a second outage.
• Keep refrigerator and freezer doors closed as much as possible. Food can be kept cold for a day or two if the doors are kept closed. During the winter, you may be able to store some items outside in a proper container. If temperatures are below freezing, it is possible to freeze water outside in containers and place them inside your refrigerator to help keep food cold. Try to consume perishable foods first. When in doubt, throw it out.
• Use portable generators cautiously. They can be used to provide limited electrical power during an outage. But, take care to ensure that they do not pose a threat to you and your family. Never fuel or run a portable generator in the home or garage, as gas-powered generators pose a serious fire and carbon monoxide threat. Generators should be installed in compliance with your local power company’s guidelines. Always operate according to the manufacturer’s instructions. For additional information on the proper use of emergency generators, call your power company.
• If you depend on a well or cistern for your water supply be prepared to use alternate sources of water until power is restored. These systems normally use electric pumps, which may not operate when the power is out.
• Be aware that gas appliances may not work if the electricity is off because the equipment may require electricity for ignition or valve operation.
• Drain pumps; supply lines, water heaters, boilers and traps in drains of tubs, sinks, commodes, washing machines and dishwashers. Plumbing can freeze when power is lost during cold weather periods. To avoid major flooding when temperatures rise, turn off supply lines to outside spigots. Water heaters that are drained to prevent damage from freezing must have their power circuits shut off as well. Failure to do so could result in loss of the heating element when power is restored. Never turn on a water heater unless the tank is full.
• List life support equipment required for family members who depend on these devices (respirators, ventilators, oxygen equipment or other life-sustaining devices) with the power company. You should have a contingency plan that always includes an alternate power source for the device and relocating the person.

Keeping Warm

Select a single room in the home in which the entire family can live – ideally a room that gets sunlight during daylight hours. Use fireplaces and wood-burning stoves with care, and always supervise them when burning. Make sure the fireplace is in proper working condition and has been inspected regularly. Never use charcoal as an indoor heat source; charcoal produces deadly carbon monoxide gas. Wear layers of clothing, including sweaters and coats, which hold warm air and help to maintain body heat for longer periods. For homes with natural gas heaters, keep meters and vents clear of ice and snow.

Checking on Relatives and Neighbors

During storms and other emergency events, check to see how your relatives and neighbors are coping, especially senior citizens and persons with disabilities. If possible, help them plan or locate resources from which to obtain assistance. Contact your local department of human services for information on services available for the elderly and residents with disabilities.

Evacuation

Local officials may call for evacuation in specific areas at greatest risk in your community. If you are told to evacuate, it is important to stay calm, listen carefully and follow all instructions. If you are sure you have time, call your family contact to tell them where you are going and when you expect to arrive. Shut off water and electricity, but leave natural gas ON unless local officials advise you otherwise. Only a professional can restore gas service once it is turned off, and this could take weeks in a disaster situation. If you must choose quickly what to take with you, grab these things and go: medical supplies, disaster supplies (flashlight, batteries, radio, first-aid kit, bottled water), a change of clothes, sleeping bag or bedroll and pillow for each family member and car and house keys.

If you plan to travel by car, become familiar now with alternate travel routes you can use to avoid congested main arteries in the event of an emergency. Remember that it is against the law to drive on the shoulder. Shoulders are reserved for police, fire and rescue vehicles.

All news radio stations such as WTOP (1500 AM/107.7 FM) and WMAL (630 AM) provide 24/7 traffic information.

Carry a winter survival kit in your vehicle. Suitable items include blankets, flashlight, shovel, jumper cables, road salt or kitty litter, flares or reflective triangles, local road maps, and high-calorie food like granola bars and cans of juice.

Consider keeping an old cell telephone and a power cord in each of your cars. Even if the telephone does not have a service provider, it should still be able to dial 911.

Children in School

In the event of a community or national emergency, or an evacuation or a shelter-in-place order, parents should check the local media and local school system cable stations, hot lines, and Web sites for announcements about changes in school openings and closings. News about changes in school schedules is routinely disseminated through most metropolitan radio and televisions stations. Many regional school divisions now also use e-mail notification systems to alert parents immediately of changes in school schedules. Check with your school to see if an e-mail notification system is in place. Generally, unless evacuation of a particular school is ordered, students will be kept at school until school officials can safely transport them home. Because the best place for children during a regional crisis may well be in school, parents are discouraged from going to school to pick up their children. If a parent does go to school, he or she should be prepared to present the identification required by the school system—usually a photo ID. Note that if a school is ordered to provide shelter in place—to protect the safety of the children—no one will be allowed in or out of the school building until the danger is passed. In that event, parents, for their own safety, should also remain indoors. Relying on the schools to transport students home on normal bus routes will help avoid gridlock in and around schools and help keep roads clear for essential emergency vehicles. If buses are severely delayed, schools may ask parents to help by picking up their children. Parents should check the local media and school news outlets regularly for announcements about school decisions.

Senior Information

Older adults should have an individual emergency plan. You can prepare your individual emergency plan by planning ahead; keeping in touch with your family and neighbors; and sharing your emergency information with others.

Plan Ahead

Disaster can strike without warning and older adults can especially be vulnerable in disasters. Older adults can help ensure their safety in case of an emergency by:

• Having your emergency kit at home ready to take with you in case you need to evacuate your home. The kit can also help "shelter in place" if emergency officials direct people to stay in their homes.
• Knowing the location and telephone number of your local emergency management and American Red Cross offices.
• Labeling any equipment, such as wheelchairs, canes or walkers you would need.
• Listing the style and serial numbers of medical devices such as pacemakers.
• Planning for transportation if you need to evacuate.
• Filling prescriptions before they run out.
• Knowing the telephone number of a 24-hour pharmacy for emergencies.
• Knowing the 24-hour emergency contact number for your doctor.
• Posting emergency telephone numbers near the telephone.
• Keeping a copy of important contact numbers and medical information in your wallet or purse.
• Planning and practicing the best escape routes from your home.

Keep in Touch with Family and Neighbors and Share Your Emergency Information

Establish relationships with nearby neighbors before an emergency or disaster happens. Ask nearby family or neighbors you trust to check on you during a disaster. Keep in touch with your family and neighbors and look out for each other by:

• Sharing your emergency contact and medical information with your apartment building management or condominium association.
• Giving your emergency contact and medical information to your neighbors and family.
• Creating a contact list of your neighbors’ information.
• Arranging for someone to check on you.
• Teaching those who may need to assist you in an emergency how to operate necessary equipment. Be sure they will be able to reach you.
• If you have home health care services, plan ahead with your agency for emergency procedures.
• Notifying local police, fire and rescue responders of special needs or mobility issues.

Keeping Updated

Getting information during an emergency situation is vital, especially at the height of the event when evacuation may be required. In 1951, President Harry Truman established the first national emergency alert system (EAS). Although the technology has improved over the years, the goal continues to be to use broadcast media to provide emergency information to the general public as quickly as possible. Using the EAS, emergency managers can provide critical information and instructions to the public. Radio and television stations provide the quickest means to obtain information. Have a battery-operated radio tuned to a local all-news or talk-radio station. Consider purchasing a battery-operated weather alert radio. Many jurisdictions use their government cable channels, electronic notification systems that are accessed through the Internet or hotline telephone systems to transmit local emergency information.

Jurisdiction Phone Numbers:

City of Alexandria

Emergency	911, (voice and TTY)
Non Emergency:
Police	703-838-4444, TTY 703-838-4896
Fire	703-838-4660, TTY 703-838-4896
General Information	703-838-4800, TTY 711
Other Government Services:
Health	703-838-4400, TTY 711
Human Services	703-838-0700, TTY 711
Web Site	http://ci.alexandria.va.us
Government Television	channel 70
School Information	703-324-6635, TTY 711
School Web Site	www.acps.k12.va.us

Arlington County

Emergency	911 (voice and TTY)
Non-Emergency:
Fire & Police	703-558-2222 (voice and TTY)
General Information	703-228-3000, TTY 703-228-4610
Other Government Services:
Public Health	703-228-4992, TTY 703-228-4611
Human Services	703-228-1300, TTY 703-228-1398
Animal Shelter	703-931-9241, TTY 711
Web Site	www.co.arlington.va.us
Government Television	channel 31, Comcast
School Hotline	703-228-8638, TTY 703-228-6178
School Information	703-228-6005, TTY 703-228-6179
School Web Site	www.arlington.k12.va.us
School Television	channel 30, Comcast

Town of Dumfries

Emergency	911 or 703-792-6500 (voice and TTY)
Non Emergency:
Police	703-221-1111, TTY 711
Fire	703-221-4242, TTY 711
ACTS Help Line	703-368-4141, TTY 711
General Information	703-221-3400, TTY 711
Other Government Services:
Health	703-792-6300, TTY 711
Human Services	703-792-7500, TTY 711
Animal Shelter	703-792-6500, TTY 711
Animal Control	703-792-6500, TTY 711
Web Site	http://dumfriesvirginia.org
Government Television	channel 3
School Web Site	www.pwcs.edu

City of Fairfax

Emergency:
Fire	911 (voice and TTY)
Police	703-591-5511, TTY 703-359-2480
Non Emergency:
Police	703-385-7924, TTY 703-359-2480
Fire	703-385-7940, TTY 711
General Information.	703-293-7120 (voice and TTY)
Other Government Services:
Health	703-246-7100, TTY 703-246-7120
Human Services	703-385-7894 (voice and TTY)
Animal Control	703-385-7924, TTY 703-359-2480
News and Events	703-273-1776, TTY 711
Web Site	www.ci.fairfax.va.us
Electronic Notification System e-MAS,	www.ci.fairfax.va.us
Government Television	channel 12, Cox
School Information	703-385-7910, TTY 711
School Web Site	www.ci.fairfax.va.us.

Fairfax County

Emergency	911 (voice and TTY)
Non Emergency:
Police & Fire	703-691-2131, TTY 703-204-2264
Hotline	703-817-7771, TTY 711
Public Information	703-324-3187, TTY 703-324-2935
Recorded Information	703-324-INFO (4636)
Other Government Services:
Health	703-246-2435, TTY 711
Human Services	703-324-7500, TTY 711
Animal Shelter	703-830-1100, TTY 711
Web Site	www.fairfaxcounty.gov
Government Television	channel 16, Cox and Comcast
School Information:
Hotline	703-246-2500, TTY 711
Web Site	www.fcps.edu
E-mail Message System	www.fcps.edu
TV Emergency Message	channel 21

City of Falls Church

Emergency	911 (voice and TTY)
Non-Emergency	703-241-5053, TTY 711
Fire	703-228-0106, TTY 711
Police	703-241-5050, TTY 703-532-4489
Citizens’ Emergency Info Line	703-248-5200, TTY 711
Employees’ Emergency Info Line	703-248-5198, TTY 711
General Information	703-248-5001, TTY 711
Other Government Services:
Health	703-534-8343, TTY 711
Human Services Info. & Referral.	703-222-0880, TTY 711
Animal Shelter	703-248-5172, TTY 711
Transportation (GEORGE)	202-637-7000, TTY 202-638-3780
Web Site	http://www.ci.falls-church.va.us
Falls Church Community Television	channels 2/12
School Information	703-248-5600, TTY 711
School Web Site	http://www.fccps.k12.va.us/

Town of Herndon

Emergency	911 (voice and TTY)
Non-Emergency:
Fire	703-437-1233, TTY 711
Police	703-435-6846, TTY 711
Family Services	703-324-7500, TTY 711
Public Works Emergency:
Operations Center (Snow/Flood)	703-435-6860, TTY 711
Water & Sewer	703-435-6853, TTY 711
After Hours	703-435-6846, TTY 711
Web Site	www.town.herndon.va.us
Electronic Notification System	www.town.herndon.va.us
Government Television	channel 23, HCTV

Town of Leesburg

Emergency	911
Non Emergency:
Police	703-771-4500, TTY 703-771-4560
General Information	703-771-2700, TTY 711
Other Government Services:
Public Works	703-737-7030, TTY 703-771-4560
After Hours	703-771-4500, TTY 703-771-4560
Health	703-777-0236, TTY 711
Social Services	703-777-0353, TTY 711
Web Site	www.leesburgva.org
Government Television	channel 2

Loudoun County

Emergency	911 (voice and TTY)
Non-Emergency:
Police	703-777-1021, TTY 711
Fire	703-777-0333, TTY 711
Government Information	703-777-0100, TTY 711
Public Information	703-777-0113, TTY 711
Other Government Services:
Health	703-777-0236, TTY 711
Social Services	703-777-0353, TTY 711
Animal Shelter	540-882-3211, 703-777-0406, TTY 711
Housing Services.	703-777-0389 (voice and TTY)
Web Site	www.loudoun.gov
Government Television	channel 2, Adelphia
School Information	703-771-6400, TTY 711
School Web Site	www.loudoun.k12.va.us.

City of Manassas

Emergency	911 (voice and TTY)
Non Emergency:
Police	703-257-8000, TTY 711
Fire	703-368-6211, TTY 711
Rescue	703-361-2030, TTY 711
City Government Information.	703-257-8200, TTY 711
Other Government Services:
Health	703-792-6300, TTY 711
Social Services	703-361-8277, TTY 711
Animal Shelter	703-792-6465, TTY 711
Public Works	703-257-8529, TTY 711
After Hours Emergency	703-257-8353, TTY 711
Safety Officer	703-257-8282, TTY 711
Web Site	www.manassascity.org
Government Television	channel 23
School Information	703-257-8800, TTY 711
School Web Site	www.manassas.k12.va.us

City of Manassas Park

Emergency	911, TTY 703-361-1136
Non Emergency:
Police	703-361-1136, TTY 711
Fire	703-335-8845, TTY 711
General Information	703-335-8803, TTY 711
Other Government Services:
Social Services	703-335-8880, TTY 711
Web Site	www.ci.manassas-park.va.us
Government Television	channel 23
School Information	703-335-8844
School Web Site	www.mpark.net

Prince William County

Emergency	911
Non Emergency:
Police	703-792-6500, TTY 703-792-6810
Fire	703-792-6800, 703-792-6810
Local Emergency Information.	703-792-4636, msg 911, TTY 711
General Information	703-792-6600, TTY 711
Other Government Services:
Health	703-792-6300, TTY 703-792-4715
Human Services	703-792-4300, TTY 703-792-4335
Animal Shelter	703-792-6465, TTY 711
Web site	www.pwcgov.org
Government Television	channel 3, Comcast
School Information.	703-791-2776, TTY 703-791-7348
School Web Site	www.pwcs.edu

Town of Purcellville

Emergency	911 (voice and TTY)
Non Emergency:
Police	540-338-7422, TTY 711
Fire	703-777-0333, TTY 711
General Information	540-338-7421, TTY 711
Other Government Services:
Health	703-777-0236, TTY 711
Human Services	703-777-0353, TTY 711
Animal Shelter	703-777-0406, 540-882-3211, TTY 711
Transportation	703-338-1610, TTY 711
Web Site	http://town.purcellville.va.us
Government Television	channel 3
School Information	703-771-6400, TTY 711

Town of Vienna

Emergency:
Fire & Rescue	911 (voice and TTY)
Police	703-938-4900, TTY 703-255-5730
Non-Emergency:
Fire & Rescue	703-691-2131, TTY 703-204-2264
Police	703-255-6366, TTY 703-255-5730
General Information	703-255-6300, TTY 703-255-5735
Web Site	www.ci.vienna.va.us.

Utilities Serving Northern Virginia

Electricity:

City of Manassas Electric Utility (City of Manassas)	703-257-8219, TTY 711
Emergency and after hrs.	703-257-8353, TTY 711
Dominion Virginia Power (Arlington County, City of Alexandria, City of Fairfax, City of Falls Church, Fairfax County, Loudoun County, Prince William County, Town of Dumfries, Town of Leesburg, Town of Vienna, Town of Purcellville)	1-888-667-3000, 1-800-552-4015
Northern Virginia Electric Cooperative (Fairfax County, Town of Leesburg, Prince William County)	703-335-0500, TTY 711

Gas:

Columbia Gas of Virginia (City of Manassas Park, Fairfax County, Prince William County)	1-800-543-8911, TTY 711
Commonwealth Gas (City of Manassas, City of Falls Church, Town of Dumfries) .	703-361-3181, TTY 711
Washington Gas (Arlington County, City of Alexandria, City of Manassas Park, City of Fairfax, Fairfax County, Town of Leesburg, Town of Vienna, Loudoun County	703-750-1000, 1-800-223-9452 or 1-800-752-7520, TTY 711

Sewer:

Arlington County	703-228-6570, TTY 703-228-4611
City of Falls Church	703-248-5071, after hrs. 703-248-5044, TTY 711
City of Manassas Park	703-335-8805, TTY 703-341-1136
Dale Service Corp. (Prince William County)	703-590-4495, TTY 711
Fairfax County Department of Public Works & Environmental Services (Fairfax County)	703-323-1211, TTY 703-239-8498
Loudoun County Sanitation Authority 703-248-5071, after hrs.	703-248-5044, TTY 711
Manassas City	703-257-8219, after hrs. and emergency 703-257-8380, TTY 711
Prince William County Service Authority (Town of Dumfries, Prince William County)	703-335-7900, TTY 711
Town of Leesburg Utilities	703-771-2750, after hrs. 703-771-4500, TTY 703-771-4560
Town of Purcellville	540-338-7421, TTY 711
Town of Vienna	703-255-6381, after hrs. 703-255-6366, TTY 711

Telephone:

Verizon Virginia (all jurisdictions)

1-800-483-1000, TTY 711

Water:

Arlington County	703-228-6570, TTY 703-228-4611
City of Falls Church (Fairfax County, City of Falls Church)	703-248-5071, after hrs. 703-248-5044, TTY 711
City of Manassas Park	703-335-8805, TTY 703-341-1136
Fairfax County Water Authority (Fairfax County)	703-698-5800, after hrs. emergency 703-698-5613, TTY 703-698-7025
Loudoun County Sanitation Authority	703-771-1092, 703-729-7878 after hrs. emergency
Manassas City	703-257-8219, after hrs. and emergency 703-257-8380, TTY 711
Prince William County Service Authority (Dumfries, Prince William County)	703-335-7900, TTY 711
Town of Leesburg Utilities	703-771-2750, after hrs. 703-771-4500, TTY 703-771-4560
Town of Purcellville	540-338-7421, TTY 711
Town of Vienna	703-255-6381, after hrs. 703-255-6366, TTY 711
Virginia-American Water Company (City of Alexandria, Prince William County)	703-491-2136, TTY 711

Regional Transportation Serving Northern Virginia

Washington Metropolitan Area Transit Authority: Customer Information	202-637-7000, TTY 202-638-3780, www.wmata.com
Virginia Department of Transportation (VDOT): Northern Virginia Road Information:	703-383-VDOT (8368),toll free 1-888-383-8368
Statewide Highway Helpline:	1-800-367-ROAD, TTY 1-800-432-1843 www.virginiadot.org
Traffic Cameras:	www.trafficland.com
Virginia Railway Express (VRE): 24-Hour Information:	1-800-RIDE-VRE, TTY 703-684-0551
Business Office 703-684-1001	www.vre.org
Local Transportation Services
Cue Bus: Serves the City of Fairfax, Town of Vienna and George Mason University	703-385-7859, TTY 711, www.ci.fairfax.va.us
DASH: Serves the City of Alexandria	703-370-3274, TTY 711, www.dashbus.com
Fairfax Connector: Serves Fairfax County, Town of Herndon	703-339-7200, TTY 703-339-1608, www.fairfaxconnector.com
GEORGE: Serves the City of Falls Church	202-637-7000, TTY 202-638-3780
Loudoun County Commuter Bus Service: Serves Loudoun County, Town of Purcellville and City of Falls Church	703-771-5665,877-465-2287, TTY 711, www.loudoun.gov
Loudoun Transit: Serves Loudoun County	540-338-1610, TTY 711
OmniRide & OmniLink: Serves Prince William County, City of Manassas, City of Manassas Park and Town of Dumfries	703-730-OMNI (6664) or 888-730-6664, TTY 711, www.omniride.com

American Red Cross:	www.redcross.org
Centers for Disease Control Public Health Emergency Preparedness	www.bt.cdc.gov
Federal Emergency Management Agency:	www.fema.gov
Virginia Department of Emergency Management:	www.vdem.state.va.us
Virginia Health Department:	www.vdh.state.va.us
Weather Channel:	www.weather.com
Community Resilience Project:	www.communityresilience.com

This information is provided as a public service for the citizens, business leaders, localgovernment, educational institutions and other organizations in Northern Virginia. Although all reasonable efforts have been made to present accurate information, no guar-antees, including expressed or implied warranties, are made with respect to this informa-tion by the Northern Virginia Regional Commission, its participating jurisdictions, their departments or agencies, directors, employees or agents, who also assume no legal responsibility for the accuracy of presentations, comments or other information in this publication. In addition, no liability is assumed and all liability is expressly declined

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