Being fully equipped and ready for any disaster is crucial for keeping your loved ones safe. Here are some steps to stay prepared for an unexpected disaster or event.
Plan ahead.
Creating a plan allows you to be prepared in an emergency. Assess exit points in your home, workplace, or places you frequent. Think about ways you can help others or others can help you in a disaster. This also includes creating a first-aid kit for yourself and your family. Your family may not be together if a disaster strikes. It is important to know which types of disasters could affect your area and how you’ll contact one another. You can make a family plan at ready.gov.
Stay Informed
Sign up for local news reports on your phone to be notified when to act. Stay up to date with weather forecasts and news alerts. Follow your local National Weather Service on social media to stay informed. If you know bad weather might be coming, stock up on essentials from the grocery store and review an evacuation plan with your family. If there are no other options, you can go to the local storm shelter with your family.
Talk to your children
Regardless of your child’s age, it is important to have a conversation about being prepared in emergencies. Discuss plans for unexpected events in an age-appropriate way. Show them where you keep the list of emergency contacts and talk about meeting places.
Get Tech Ready
Have an emergency plan for charging phones and laptops. Utilize email, texting, or social media to keep in contact with family and friends. However, you should also have a backup plan if your cell phone does not work. Keep a charger in your car and invest in a portable charger to carry wherever you go.
Make a preparedness kit
Having a kit ready at any time helps families be prepared for a disaster at any moment. Your kit could include:
- Helmets
- Shoes
- Flashlight
- Water bottles
- Extra batteries
- Phone charger
- Fire extinguisher
- Toiletries
- Non-perishable food
- First-aid kit
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