In addition to listening to the emergency alert system and local health officials, you also need to know about other sources of help that are available when a disaster happens. Please become familiar with the following resources; they can provide emergency assistance and critical information during a time of disaster.
Emergency 9-1-1
9-1-1 is the universal emergency phone number for residents of the United States to use to request emergency assistance. During a disaster, do not call 9-1-1 unless the situation is life threatening. Parents should teach their children how and when to dial 9-1-1. For tips on teaching children how to use 9-1-1, visit the children’s page of the Texas Commission on State Emergency Communications Web site at www.911.state.tx.us.
2-1-1 Texas First Call For Help
2-1-1 is a nonemergency information and referral hotline. It is available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week to every resident of Texas. Specialists are trained to provide callers with current information such as evacuation routes and locations of food and shelter during a disaster. 2-1-1 Texas is included in Texas Homeland Security strategy as a way to share information and mobilize resources during local, state or national disasters. For more information, visit the Web at www.211.org.
Texas Poison Control Center
If you suspect that someone has ingested or inhaled a toxic substance, immediately call the poison control center at (800) 222-1222. A trained professional will give you specific instructions on how to handle the incident. Poison control specialists are available to take calls 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. For more information, see the Web site at
Texas Department of State Health services (DSHS)
Texas DSHS offers current information on emergency preparedness for families, professionals and responders. For fact sheets, frequently asked questions, emergency checklists and information on volunteering with Protect Texas, see www.dshs.state.tx.us/comprep.
