PRACTICAL RESOURCES FOR PREPARING FOR A NATURAL DISASTER

Wherever you may live, it’s good to be prepared for a natural disaster. From hurricanes to tornadoes and earthquakes, unexpected events can cause serious property damage and pose a safety threat. While you hopefully won’t ever face these circumstances, it’s best to be prepared, just in case.

The National Emergency Planning and Training Association gives people the knowledge they need to stay safe when disasters strike. Read on for resources to help you prepare.

Create a Comprehensive Emergency Preparedness Kit

While you’ll hopefully never have to use it, having emergency supplies on hand can’t hurt.

• Get a basic first aid kit or create your own with the 33 essentials you may need, from bandages to antibiotic ointment.
• Invest in a decent emergency generator so you’ll still have power in case the electricity goes out.
• Create an emergency food stash or even start growing your own food so you always have food access.
• Get a basic broadcast radio to stay connected to the world in case telecommunications are jeopardized in an emergency.

Map Out a Natural Disaster Emergency Plan

Having emergency goods is only half the battle. Knowing beforehand what to do in a natural disaster will allow you to act quickly.

• Research the types of common natural disasters in your area and know what to do if they strike. For example, if you live in tornado country, it’s important to know to go underground if a funnel cloud hits.
• Write out an emergency plan and go through it with your family, practicing as needed. For instance, kids should know that if there’s a fire, they should get out of the house.
• Map out an evacuation plan in case you have to leave your home. Knowing where to go in advance will save valuable time.
• Know where to locate your home’s gas and water shutoff valves in case of risks like flooding or fire.

Prepare Your House for Disasters Accordingly

If a disaster is predicted in your area, get your home ready to keep your belongings and your family safe.

• Secure doors and windows ahead of storms like hurricanes or tornadoes. If your home experiences damage, look up storm window repair near me for a quick fix.
• If flooding is a potential concern, use sandbags to protect your property.
• Keep trees trimmed to minimize the risk of heavy branches falling on your property.

The thought of a natural disaster isn’t pleasant. However, it’s better to think about possible scenarios now and prepare accordingly than to be caught off guard. The resource guide above can help you get started.

By: Charlotte Meier

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