In the event of a disaster or public health crisis in the community, we rely on volunteers to assist with emergency response.  Because emergency situations often occur without warning, we ask volunteers to register ahead of time.  You are then contacted if assistance is needed.  Any required training is done on-site at the time of the event.

If you would like to help keep your community safe during and after an emergency, please consider becoming an emergency preparedness volunteer!  

You can register through the Wisconsin Emergency Assistance Volunteer Registry (WEAVR), an online registration system for volunteers willing to serve in an emergency.  

You can register using this link: www.weavrwi.org

During the registration, please select “Wauwatosa Health Department” as your organization. 

Extreme Weather

The Wauwatosa Health Department monitors and prepares for severe weather events.

Cold Weather Safety

Call 211 if you need assistance finding a temporary warming center or an emergency shelter.

Tips to stay safe in cold weather:

• Follow local news and weather reports. If you have friends or neighbors who may not be aware of the weather warnings, share the information with them. Check on anyone who may need assistance.
• Make sure you have a home emergency kit. The kit should include:
  • Flashlights
  • Extra batteries
  • Candles and matches
  • Battery operated or hand-cranked radio
  • Blankets
  • Non-perishable foods
  • Bottled water
  • Extra food and water for pets
  • First aid kit
• Keep electronic devices fully charged in case you lose power.
• Wear appropriate clothing if you need to go outside. Ensure any exposed skin is covered. 
• Bring pets inside and keep trips outside brief.
• Avoid overexertion when shoveling snow to reduce the risk of a heart attack.

If you lose power:

• Close off any unneeded rooms and stuff towels under doors.
• Open faucets to a stead drip to avoid freezing pipes.
• Heat your home with devices approved for indoor use. Ensure they are properly vented to prevent carbon monoxide poisoning and fires. Never use grills or camp stoves indoors. Keep flammable materials away from portable heaters.

If you plan to travel during a storm or extreme cold:

• Consider delaying your plans. Stay off the roads during a winter storm, if possible.
• Create an emergency supply kit for your vehicle. This should include jumper cables, sand, snow shovel, flashlight, batteries, warm clothes, blankets, bottled water, and non-perishable snacks. Maker sure you have a full tank of gas.
• If you become stranded, call for help and stay in your vehicle. Run the car for 10 minutes every hour to maintain heat. Keep the exhaust pipe clear of snow to avoid carbon monoxide poisoning.