The Hazard Mitigation Plan identifies hazards and potential hazards in Gwinnett County, creates a framework to help community officials make decisions that may ultimately protect lives and property, and also outlines a strategy for implementing mitigation projects.

2025 Hazard Mitigation Plan

Gwinnett County faces a wide range of natural and manmade hazards. Understanding these risks and knowing how to prepare can help protect lives and property.

Cyber Crime Drought Earthquakes Extreme Heat Flooding and Dam Failure Hazardous Materials Releases Hurricanes

Public Health Emergencies Terrorism Thunderstorms and Lightning Tornadoes Wildfires Winter Storms

 

Stay informed and prepared to reduce your risk from these common hazards. For more details, contact Gwinnett County Emergency Management.

Cyberattacks are malicious attempts to access or damage a computer or network system. Cyberattacks can lead to the loss of money or the theft of personal, financial, and medical information. These attacks can damage your reputation and safety.

Cyber attacks can occur in many ways

• Accessing personal devices
• Damaging financial security
• Impacting transportation and the power grid

Protect yourself against cyberattacks

• Limit personal information you share online
• Create strong passwords
• Watch for suspicious activity
• Check account statements and credit reports regularly
• Backup your files
• Do not click links from people you do not know

During a cyberattack

• Check credit card and bank statements
• Change all account passwords
• Consider turning off device that has been affected
• Run a security scan

After a cyberattack

• Contact banks, credit card companies, etc.
• File a report with the Office of the Inspector General
• File a report to local police

 

For more Information: Cybersecurity | Ready.gov

According to drought.gov, 88.5% of people in Gwinnett County are affected by drought.

A drought can have a major impact on day-to-day life. Here are some tips for mitigating the effects of drought by conserving water and energy.

General Tips

• Follow the Department of Water Resources’ current water restrictions. Contact DWR or your utility district for information specific to Gwinnett County.
• Energy is produced using large volumes of water, so conserving energy also conserves water. Save energy by turning off lights and reducing the use of the air conditioner when you’re not at home.

 

In The Kitchen and Laundry

• Wash only full loads of dishes and laundry. You’ll save water and energy.
• Use a rubber spatula to scrape dishes clean instead of rinsing with water.
• Soak dirty pans or dishes for speedier washing.
• Reuse clean household water. Collect water used to boil vegetables and/or shower water. Use it to water houseplants.

 

In The Bathroom

• Take a shower instead of a bath. Filling the bathtub uses about 50 gallons of water; a shower uses about 20 gallons.
• Install a water-saving shower head that uses 2.5 gallons per minute.
• Fix leaking faucets and toilets. Test for a leaking toilet by putting a few drops of food coloring in the toilet tank. Wait a few minutes, then look in the bowl. If the food coloring has made its way there, you have a leak.
• Use a glass for rinse water when brushing teeth or shaving instead of letting the faucet run. An electric razor also saves

 

For more information: Drought | Ready.gov

Approximately 15% of the world’s earthquakes are scattered over areas like Georgia that lack clearly defined active faults.  Georgia’s northwest counties, South Carolina border counties, and central and west central Georgia counties are most at risk; however, scattered earthquakes can cause significant damage and are an important consideration for homeowners.

Before an Earthquake

• Secure cabinets, bookcases, and mirrors to wall studs. Avoid installing bookcases next to beds, since heavily loaded structures could fall.
• Do NOT hang pictures over the bed.
• Consider having chimneys, roofs, and walls checked for stability
• Keep insurance policies up-to-date and stored safely. Determine if earthquake insurance is right for you.

During an Earthquake - Drop, Cover, Hold On

• Drop to the ground fast
• Cover yourself under a strong table or desk
• Cover your face and head
• Hold onto a table or desk and be prepared to move with it. Hold your position until the shaking stops.
• Do NOT run outside or use the stairways or elevators during the shaking.

After an Earthquake

• When tremors STOP, leave the building immediately until it is safe to return.
• Check your building for cracks and structural damage.
• Take photos to record damage before you clean up or make repairs.
• Move valuables to a safe, weatherproof location.
• Review your insurance coverage and report claims promptly.
• Use licensed professionals to conduct inspections and repair your home

For more information: Earthquakes | Ready.gov

Those in Gwinnett County are no strangers to heat, but in extreme heat and humidity, your sweat evaporates very slowly and your body has to work harder to cool itself. Protect your health by knowing what to do before, during and after a period of extreme heat:

Before Extreme Heat

• Check to see if your home’s cooling system is working properly.
• Make sure your home is well insulated and that you have weather stripping around your doors and windowsills to keep the cool air inside.
• Install window air conditioners snugly; insulate if necessary.
• Cover windows that receive morning or afternoon sun with drapes, shades, awnings, or louvers. (Outdoor awnings or louvers can reduce the heat that enters a home by up to 80 percent.)

 

During Extreme Heat

• Stay indoors as much as possible and limit exposure to the sun
• Drink plenty of fluids and replace salts and minerals in your body
• Closely monitor a local radio station, TV station or NOAA Weather Radiofor the latest information
• Dress in loose-fitting, lightweight, and light-colored clothes that cover as much skin as possible. Protect face and head by wearing a wide-brimmed hat
• Spend time in air-conditioned places
• Stay on the lowest floor, out of the sunshine if air conditioning is not available.
• Check on family, friends, and neighbors who do not have air conditioning and who spend much of their time alone
• Never leave children or pets alone in closed vehicles

 

For More Information: Extreme Heat | Ready.gov

Floods can be slow or fast rising, but generally develop over a period of days. Many communities experience some kind of flooding after spring rains or heavy thunderstorms. Gwinnett County has 25 dams, and dam failures can occur with little warning. When a dam fails, the damage can be catastrophic.

Before Flooding

• Know your area’s flood risk – visit Flood Smart.
• Property insurance does not typically cover flood damage. Talk to your insurance provider about your policy and consider if you need additional coverage.
  • The National Flood Insurance Program is designed to provide reasonable flood insurance in exchange for the careful management of flood-prone areas by local communities. The program, administered by FEMA, is available in hundreds of participating Georgia communities.
• Reduce potential flood damage by raising your furnace, water heater, and electric panel if they are in areas of your home that may be flooded.
• Plan ahead for your pets. Shelters cannot always accept pets due to health reasons, so it’s important to find a pet-friendly hotel or make arrangements with family or friends in advance.

 

During Flooding

• Closely monitor a local radio station, TV station, NOAA Weather Radio for flood information.
• Follow the instructions of local officials. If advised to evacuate, do so immediately.
• Do not drive around barricades. They are there for your safety.
• NEVER drive through standing water. It only takes one foot to float a full-sized automobile and two feet can sweep it away.
• Move to higher ground away from rivers, streams, creeks and storm drains.
• Stay away from downed power lines to avoid the risk of electric shock or electrocution.

 

After Flooding

• Do not return to your home until local authorities say it is safe. Even after floodwaters recede, roads and bridges may be weakened and could collapse.
• Stay out of flood waters if possible

 

For More Information: Floods | Ready.gov

An emergency or disaster could result from hazardous and radiological materials being released into the environment. Fixed facilities (e.g., chemical plants, nuclear power plants and facilities, tank farms, laboratories, operating hazardous waste sites) that produce, generate, use, store or dispose of hazardous materials, including radioactive materials, could be damaged so that spill control apparatus and containment measures are not effective. Hazardous and radiological materials that are transported may be involved in rail accidents, highway collisions, and waterway and airline mishaps.

If there is a release:

• Evacuate if told to – move upwind
• If the hazardous material is in your building, get out of the building without passing through the contaminated area, if possible
• Bring your pets inside
• If told to shelter in place, seal gaps of windows and doors with wet towels, tape, etc.
• Turn off A/C unit

 

How to Decontaminate:

• Remove all clothing and other items in contact with your body
• Wash hands with soap and water
• Flush eyes with water
• Gently wash face and hair with soap and water before thoroughly rinsing with water

 

For More Information: Chemicals and Hazardous Materials Incidents | Ready.gov

As a coastal state, Georgia is at risk for hurricanes that form in the southern Atlantic Ocean, Caribbean Sea and Gulf of Mexico. Hurricanes can cause catastrophic damage hundreds of miles inland, so every resident should understand their risks and plan what to do in the event of an evacuation.

Before A Hurricane

• Prepare to secure your property.
• Cover all your home’s windows with hurricane shutters to protect them from high winds. Another option is to board up windows with 5/8” exterior-grade or marine pre-cut plywood. Tape does not prevent windows from breaking.
• Plan to bring in all outdoor furniture, decorations, garbage cans, and anything else that is not tied down.
• Keep all trees and shrubs well-trimmed to make them more wind-resistant.
• If you have a car, fill the gas tank in case you must evacuate.

 

During A Hurricane

• Listen to NOAA Weather Radio, watch TV, listen to the radio, or check the Internet often for official news and instructions as they become available.
• Secure your home, close storm shutters, and secure outdoor objects or bring them indoors.
• Stay indoors during the hurricane and away from windows and glass doors.
• Close all interior doors – secure and brace external doors.
• Take refuge in a small interior room, closet, or hallway on the lowest level.

You should evacuate under the following conditions:

• If you are directed by local authorities to do so. Be sure to follow their instructions.
• If you live in a mobile home or temporary structure – such shelters are particularly hazardous during a hurricane no matter how well fastened to the ground.
• If you live in a high-rise building – hurricane winds are stronger at higher elevations.

 

After A Hurricane

• Be alert for tornadoes and flooding
• Stay away from downed power lines to avoid the risk of electric shock or electrocution.
• Do not return to your home until local authorities say it is safe

 

For More Information: Hurricanes | Ready.gov

Public health emergencies can strike at any time. This section helps you learn how to plan, prepare and stay informed when you need it most.

If a Public Health Emergency is declared:

• Wash your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds and try not to touch your eyes, nose, or mouth.
• Keep a distance of at least six feet between yourself and people who are not part of your household.
• Cover your mouth and nose with a mask when in public.
• Clean and disinfect high-touch objects and surfaces.
• Stay at home as much as possible to prevent the spread of disease.
• Follow the guidance of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).

 

For More Information: Pandemics | Ready.gov

All Georgians should begin to learn about potential threats and know that by making a simple phone call, you may help thwart a terrorist attack.

Be Aware of Suspicious Behavior

• Surveillance: Video recording or monitoring activities, taking notes, using cameras, maps or binoculars near key facilities or events
• Suspicious Questioning: Attempting to gain information in person, by phone, mail, email, etc. regarding a key facility or people who work there
• Tests of Security: Attempts to penetrate or test physical security or procedures at a key facility/event
• Acquiring Supplies: Attempting to improperly acquire explosives, weapons, ammunition, dangerous chemicals, uniforms, badges, flight manuals, access cards or identification for a key facility/event or to legally obtain items under suspicious circumstances that could be used in a terrorist attack
• Suspicious Persons: Anyone who does not appear to belong in the workplace, neighborhood, business establishment or near a key facility or event
• “Dry Runs”: Behavior that appears to be preparation for a terrorist act, such as mapping out routes, playing out scenarios with other people, monitoring key facilities/events, timing traffic lights or traffic flow, or other suspicious activities
• Deploying Assets: Abandoned vehicles, stockpiling of suspicious materials, or persons being deployed near a key facility/event

If You See Something, Say Something: If you see someone behaving suspiciously, report it to local law enforcement. Tips also can be reported online through the See Something, Send Something app. 
 

For More Information: Attacks in Crowded and Public Spaces | Ready.gov

Georgia’s greatest threats from severe thunderstorms are damaging straight-line winds and large hail. Straight-line winds can reach speeds in excess of 58 mph and produce damage similar to a tornado. These winds occur about 75 days per year in Georgia and are most common in the spring and summer months, peaking in July.

Before A Thunderstorm

• Remove dead or rotting trees and branches that could fall and cause injury or damage during a thunderstorm.
• If thunder roars, go indoors. Stay indoors for at least 30 minutes after hearing the last clap of thunder.
• Secure outdoor objects that could blow away or cause damage.

 

During A Thunderstorm

• If there is a thunderstorm in the area, go quickly inside a home, building, or hard-top automobile, if possible.
• If shelter is not available, go to the lowest area nearby.
• Listen to a battery-operatedNOAA Weather Radio or radio for the latest updates.
• Avoid taking a shower or a bath during a thunderstorm. Plumbing and bathroom fixtures can conduct electricity.
• Do not use electrical items such as computers or television sets, as power surges from lightning can cause serious damage.

 

Things to avoid include:

• Tall or isolated trees or other tall objects
• Hilltops, open fields, the beach, a pool, a boat on the water, isolated sheds or other small structures in open areas.
• Anything metal — wires, metal fences, tractors, farm equipment, motorcycles, golf carts, golf clubs, and bicycles.

 

After A Thunderstorm

• Turn around, don’t drown!
• Stay away from downed power lines and report them immediately to your local power company

 

For More Information: Thunderstorms & Lightning | Ready.gov

Tornadoes are nature’s most violent storms and they are Georgia’s No. 1 weather-related killer. They can develop without warning and oftentimes can be hidden by trees or rain. Be prepared to act quickly. Planning and practicing specifically how and where you take shelter is a matter of survival. Tornadoes can occur at any time of the year, making advance preparation vitally important.

A tornado watch means weather conditions are favorable for tornadoes to develop.

A tornado warning means either a tornado is occurring or expected to develop shortly in your area, and you need to take shelter immediately.

Before A Tornado

• Be alert to changing weather conditions. Look for approaching storms.
• Determine in advance where you will take shelter in case of a tornado warning.
• Storm cellars or basements provide the best protection.
• If underground shelter is not available, an interior room or hallway on the lowest floor possible in the best option.
• In a high-rise building, go to a small interior room or hallway on the lowest floor possible.
• Listen to NOAA Weather Radio, commercial radio, and television newscasts for the latest information

 

During A Tornado

• If you are in a tornado warning, seek shelter immediately
• Go to a pre-designated shelter area away from corners, windows, doors, and outside walls
• If you are in a vehicle, trailer, or mobile home, get out immediately and go to the lowest floor of a structure
• If you are outside without shelter, lie flat in a nearby ditch or depression and cover your head with your hands
• Do not get under an overpass or bridge

 

For More Information: Tornadoes | Ready.gov

More and more people are making their homes in wooded settings near forests and remote mountain sites. There, homeowners enjoy the beauty of the environment but face the very real danger of wildfires. They spread quickly and change direction rapidly, igniting brush, trees, and homes. In Georgia, the fire season is during the dry and windy months of February through May, but that does not mean wildfires cannot happen at any time.

Before A Wildfire

• Plan several escape routes away from your home, by car and by foot.
• Be aware of recent weather. A long period without rain increases the risk of wildfire.
• Use fire-resistant materials when building, renovating, or retrofitting structures.
• Have a garden hose that is long enough to reach any area of the home and other structures on the property.
• Consider having a professional inspect your property and offer recommendations for reducing the wildfire risk.

 

Learn and teach safe fire practices:

• Build fires away from nearby trees or bushes.
• Always have a way to extinguish the fire quickly and completely.
• Install smoke detectors on every level of your home and near sleeping areas.
• Never leave a fire—even a cigarette—burning unattended.
• Avoid open burning completely, especially during the dry season.

 

Always be ready for an emergency evacuation.

• Evacuation may be the only way to protect your family in a wildfire. Know where to go and what to bring with you.
• Plan several escape routes in case roads are blocked by a wildfire.

 

Create safety zones around your home.

• All vegetation is fuel for a wildfire, though some trees and shrubs are more flammable than others. To reduce the risk, modify or eliminate brush, trees and other vegetation near your home. The greater the distance is between your home and the vegetation, the greater the protection

 

For More Information: Wildfires | Ready.gov

While the danger from winter weather varies across the state, most Georgians are likely to face some type of severe winter weather at some point in their lives. That could mean snow or subfreezing temperatures, as well as strong winds or even ice or heavy rainstorms. Winter storms, which can affect all of Georgia, result in extreme cold, downed power lines and blocked roads and highways.

Before Winter Weather

• Keep space heater safety in mind: Use electric space heaters with automatic shut-off switches and non-glowing elements. Remember to keep all heat sources at least three feet away from furniture and drapes.
• Make sure your home is well insulated and that you have weather stripping around your doors and windowsills to keep the warm air inside.
• Make sure you have a working carbon monoxide detector.
• Have at least one of the following heat sources in case the power goes out:
• Extra blankets, sleeping bags and warm winter coats
• Fireplace or wood-burning stove with plenty of dry firewood, or a gas log fireplace
• Kerosene heater, with proper ventilation.
• Prepare your vehicle: Fully winterize your vehicle: Have a mechanic check antifreeze, brakes, heater and defroster, tires, and windshield wipers to ensure they are in good shape. Keep your gas tank at least half full.
• Plan to check on elderly/disabled relatives and neighbors.
• Plan to bring pets inside.

 

During Winter Weather

• Listen to NOAA Weather Radio to stay informed of winter weather watches and warnings. Also monitor commercial radio, television, and the Internet.
• Check on elderly/disabled relatives and neighbors.
• Bring pets inside.
• Keep in mind that during a severe winter storm it could be hours, or even days, before emergency personnel are able to reach you. Don’t call 911 for information or to report a power outage.
• Allow faucets to drip a little during cold weather to avoid freezing.

 

Winter Weather Driving

Minimize travel during winter weather. If you can postpone your trip or if it is non-essential, stay in when the weather is really bad. If you don’t have somewhere you have to be, watch the snow from indoors.

For More Information: Winter Weather | Ready.gov