The most frightening thing about natural disasters and emergencies is that they happen completely at random. When tragedy strikes, it can mean leaving your home with only a moment’s notice or being trapped in your home with limited access to supplies. To create peace of mind for your family, prepare yourself for a disaster by taking a few extra steps toward emergency preparedness.
Build a food storage. When disasters happen, grocery store shelves are often wiped clean and it can become difficult to attain everyday items. So your family is never left wanting, aim to keep a storage of food and supplies that will last at a few weeks. Rather than buying a bunch of MREs or freeze dried food that you don’t like, just buy an extra can, box of cereal or tube of toothpaste every time you go to the store to have extra food that your family enjoys on hand. Within reason, creating a stockpile while items are on sale can also save you money in the long run.
Create a “go-bag” for each family member. In the frenzy of leaving your home unexpectedly, it can be difficult to remember all the things you may need. Create a “go-bag” for each family member that includes all the necessary and important items they would need. Store it somewhere that would be easy to access, and consider having a separate kit to keep in your car and at work. Here’s a complete list of items to include in your kit. Remind yourself to check these items every six months and replace expired food and outgrown clothing.
Get emergency tools. No one likes to dwell on what might happen during an emergency, but consider it for a moment and decide what tools your family may need. Will the power go out? Could you lose your source or heat? What would you do if the tap water turned off? Having tools like a water filter and propane heater could be the difference between life and death in certain situations.
Save money. Consider opening a small account to be sure you can care for your family’s needs if you are ever out of a job. Be sure to have life, home and property insurance to protect your assets during a natural disaster. Be sure all the information you need to access this money and insurance information, including your ID, birth certificate and social security card, are stored together in a water and fireproof location.
For more information about preparing your family for an emergency, visit https://www.ready.gov/.