Disaster Prepwise

02/05/2026

🚨 Stay Informed. Stay Safe. Johnson County. 🚨
The Johnson County Emergency Management (JCEMA) App is your go-to source for important safety updates, weather alerts, road closures, and emergency information all in one place.

📲 Why download the JCEMA app?
✔️ Real-time emergency alerts
✔️ Severe weather updates
✔️ Local safety information you can trust
✔️ Updates specific to Johnson County

Don’t wait until an emergency happens, download the JCEMA app today and make sure notifications are turned on so you never miss critical information.

🔔 Your safety starts with staying informed.

02/03/2026

Even indoors, the cold can affect your health! Learn how to protect yourself from indoor cold-related risks and stay warm and safe this winter. ❄️🧤⛄️

01/28/2026

Our Program Coordinator recently presented Disaster PrepWise to the Johnson County CERT team! After the presentation, we had a great discussion about community preparedness and also connected with the Project Lifesaver coordinator to explore ways we can work more closely together to keep our community safe

01/28/2026

Whether you're embarking on a fun road trip with family and friends, or facing an unexpected evacuation order after a disaster, here are some suggestions to keep you safe when you go the distance:

01/28/2026

Still haven’t a found a New Years resolution?

Here are some fresh ideas to get you kick-started on your journey. Plus help you plan for disasters with practical tips to be ready for anything!

01/21/2026

Thank you to Horizons for welcoming us! AmeriCorps member Ela Gilson presented at Horizons to discuss the importance of disaster preparedness among caregivers. Empowering caregivers with the tools and knowledge to prepare ahead helps protect individuals, families, and communities when emergencies arise

01/16/2026

AmeriCorps members Elaine Musiwa and Ela Gilson recently presented at the Pathway Adult Health Day Center on Disaster PrepWise!
During the presentation, we discussed the importance of being prepared before disasters happen. Highlighting simple, practical steps individuals and communities can take to stay safe, informed, and resilient during emergencies. Disaster PrepWise focuses on empowering people with the knowledge and tools needed to reduce risk and recover more effectively when disasters occur.
Thank you to Pathway Adult Health Day Center for welcoming us and for your commitment to community health and preparedness!

01/15/2026

Our Iowa Public Health AmeriCorps members have been having a great time at Horizons: Meals on Wheels, Financial Wellness & NTS presenting disaster preparedness-themed topics, games, and emergency supplies with seniors at their congregate dining service!!!

12/31/2025

Caregiving during emergencies or high-stress moments can feel overwhelming. Take a deep breath, focus on what you can control, and remember you don’t have to do everything at once. Staying calm helps you and those you care for stay safe.
✔️ Pause and breathe
✔️ Stick to familiar routines
✔️ Ask for help when needed

12/20/2025

Winter Is Here!

As the first day of winter approaches, the Disaster PrepWise team at the University of Iowa College of Public Health is sharing helpful resources to keep you this season! ⛄️

In the coming days, we’ll be posting links to FEMA’s Winter Ready resources — full of tips on preparing for cold weather, winter storms, emergency kits, safety strategies, and more to help you and your household stay safe all winter long.
FEMA LINK: https://www.ready.gov/winter-ready

Whether you’re building your emergency plan or just brushing up on winter safety, PrepWise is here to support your preparedness every step of the way.

Preventing House Heating Fires Preparing for Power Outages Winter Travel Tips for Your Specific Needs Additional Resources Being means understanding winter risks you face and taking steps now to prepare. This page will be updated throughout the winter to add more resources and informati...

12/16/2025

Our Public Health students just showcased their experiential learning projects! 🎓
Students presented posters detailing their hands-on research and internship experiences at the College of Public Health. These projects allowed them to apply classroom knowledge in real-world public health settings—tackling community challenges, analyzing data, and creating solutions that make a tangible impact.

We’re incredibly proud of their creativity, dedication, and the practical skills they’re gaining through these experiences.

12/08/2025

In an emergency, how you communicate can save time and even lives. Here are a few quick tips to help you stay prepared:
✅ Keep your phone charged and carry a portable charger
✅ Share your emergency plan with family and friends
✅ Know at least two ways to contact loved ones
✅ Use text messages when calls won’t go through
✅ Stay informed through trusted alerts and local updates
Stay safe and stay connected!