Natural disasters cannot be prevented. They can wreak havoc on a community even when there’s a comprehensive preparedness plan in place. But that doesn’t mean there is nothing you can do to help safeguard your family in the event of a hurricane, wildfire, tornado, earthquake, severe weather, or another catastrophe. Taking some simple steps can add layers of protection for your family and property.
ISD has a long history of working with public and private sector leaders who have an interest in community and economic disaster recovery, resilience, and sustainability. And we want to share some practical preparedness tips to keep in mind should a natural disaster come your way:
Make an Emergency Plan
Perhaps the most important thing you can do to protect your family and property is to figure out what you will do in the event of a disaster.
Learn about the natural disasters that are most likely to hit the area where you live.
Hold a family meeting to talk about how you can prepare and respond to potential disasters.
Assign roles to each household member, and discuss ways that you can work cohesively during an emergency.
Try to regularly practice any parts of your plan that are practical.
Prepare Your Property
Property damage—and the financial implications that come with it—account for much of the devastation that comes from natural disasters.
Evaluate your property for any trees that could prove dangerous or problematic during a hurricane or severe weather; if necessary, hire a tree removal service on Angi.com.
If you have patio or porch furniture, make sure every piece is tied down before a storm.
Consider putting in wind-resistant doors and windows for increased security in high winds; if you know a storm is on the horizon, covering your doors and windows with plywood can help as well.
Locate your gas, water, and electric lines so that you can turn them off to prevent flooding or fire hazards during an emergency.
Assemble a Preparedness Kit
Finally, putting together a disaster preparedness kit of essential items can save your life if your community is struck by a catastrophe.
Pack enough drinking water for each person in your household to have one gallon per day.
Include meal replacement bars, canned veggies and fruit, and other types of nonperishable foods.
Make sure there is a battery-powered radio (models from Midland and RunningSnail have great reviews), flashlights, camping lanterns, and extra batteries in your kit.
And of course, don’t forget to pack a versatile first-aid kit.
Making a household plan for potential natural disasters can mean the difference between life and death. Along with helping your family to stay safe, preparing for a catastrophe can also help you prevent devastating property damage. Be sure to consider the tips above as you prepare for the worst-case scenario, and keep learning other ways that you can safeguard your family and home.
Would you like to read more helpful content or learn about how our organization facilitates community recovery and resilience? Explore more of isdus.org today!