Disaster Prepwise

11/23/2025

Disaster PrepWise is excited to host a donation drive in the College of Public Health atrium the first week of December!

Our team is collecting office, pantry, and health-related supplies to support Horizons: Meals on Wheels, Financial Wellness & NTS.

Every donation makes a difference - thank you for helping our staff and volunteers be ready and stay safe in the workplace!

11/17/2025

As we head into Thanksgiving break next week, many of us will be hitting the road to visit family and friends. Before you travel, take a moment to plan for Iowa’s winter weather, which can change quickly and make driving conditions unpredictable.
❄️ Winter Travel Tips:
Check the forecast and road conditions before you leave

Pack an emergency kit (blanket, flashlight, snacks, charger, scraper)

Let someone know your route and expected arrival time

Keep your gas tank at least half full

This is also a perfect time to think about how prepared you are for unexpected events. The Disaster PrepWise project encourages everyone in our community to take small steps that make a big difference in emergencies—whether you’re traveling across the state or staying right here in Iowa City.
Stay safe, stay warm, and have a wonderful Thanksgiving break, Hawkeyes! 🦃🍂

Other resources used
https://www.iowapublicradio.org/arts-life/2024-12-09/things-to-do-in-the-winter-iowa

11/10/2025

November 10th is World Immunization Day — a reminder that preparedness isn’t just about storing water and batteries; it’s also about protecting our bodies and our communities from vaccine-preventable diseases.

Did you know?: Vaccination currently prevents an estimated 3.5 - 5 million deaths every year globally.

When disaster strikes, whether a storm, a fire, or a health emergency having strong baseline protection (e.g. immunizations) means fewer complications, faster recovery, and greater resilience. Take this moment to check your records: Are you and your family up to date on routine vaccines? In a disaster scenario, a tiny step now can relieve big stress later.

Learn more about global immunization impact: https://www.who.int/health-topics/vaccines-and-immunization

Other sources used:
https://www.nationalchurchresidences.org/blog/covid-19-vaccine-education-resources/
https://www.who.int/health-topics/vaccines-and-immunization?utm_source=chatgpt.com =tab_1

11/08/2025

11/06/2025

We usually think of emergencies as big events, like a disaster striking - but sometimes our pets can cause one without meaning to. Whether it’s getting trapped in a cozy space or chewing on something unsafe, these simple household tips can help prevent accidents before they happen.

11/05/2025

United Way of Johnson & Washington Counties and Johnson County Food Access Network have partnered for a community response to food insecurity in Johnson County.

Want to help? Join the effort by donating online, volunteering at a local pantry, or supporting the food drive. Most needed items include: peanut butter, hearty soups, canned chicken, canned tuna, pasta, rice, and baby formula.

Every contribution helps ensure access to nutritious meals for families in our community 💛

https://www.unitedwayjwc.org/food-access

10/29/2025

🎶 "If I could turn back time, if I could find a way..."
That’s what people might say after a disaster, but you can prepare now and avoid the regret later.

Be ready for all-hazards threats by updating your home and emergency plans every six months - and daylight saving time is perfect to help you remember!

10/21/2025

We had a blast hosting Fearless Family Feud at the CERT Rodeo!!!

This fun twist on a classic game was a great way to test knowledge and spark conversations about community preparedness.
A big thank you to Linn County Emergency Management Agency for having us out—and to all the teams who joined us for great edutainment!

10/17/2025

These days, technology is getting smarter... but so are hackers. Strong passwords are your first line of defense against personal, legal, and financial scams. Here’s how to make yours tough to decrypt - and what to avoid.

10/01/2025

Jeepers, spooky month is here already!! But that doesn't mean you have to be scared of roundabouts - even in the d- d- d- dark. Here are a few tips to help you feel less haunted when navigating one.

09/27/2025

We were excited to reunite with AmeriCorps Disaster PrepWise alumni at the CERT Rodeo today!!