Preparing for a disaster involves creating a comprehensive plan covering all potential risks, from natural disasters like tornadoes, earthquakes, and hurricanes to man-made events like power outages or chemical spills.

Guide to Emergency Preparation

Follow the steps below to learn more about how to prepare effectively, with sources for further reading.

Build an Emergency Kit

• Basic supplies. Include water (one gallon per person per day for at least three days), non-perishable food, flashlight, batteries, first aid kit, and necessary medications. The Department of Homeland Security recommends having at least 72 hours of supplies on hand.
• Technology. Keep phones charged, especially during inclement weather. Solar phone chargers are a good option in times of natural disaster.
• Tools and hygiene. Multi-purpose tools, hygiene products, blankets, and a change of clothes.
• Documents and cash. Copies of important documents (e.g., insurance, IDs), and cash in small bills.
• Personal needs. Items for children, elderly, and pets.

Create an Emergency Plan

• Family communication plan. Ensure all family members know how to communicate during an emergency. Designate an out-of-town contact as a central point of communication.
• Evacuation routes and shelter. Identify the safest routes out of your home and community. Be sure everyone is familiar with shelter locations.
• Meeting points. Designate a meeting place near your home and another outside of your neighborhood.
• Special needs considerations. Plan for family members with disabilities, elderly members, and pets. Ensure you have quick and easy access to your emergency kit, necessary supplies, and medications.
• Practice your plan. Practice the plan regularly to ensure everyone knows what to do in different situations.

Stay Informed

• Local alerts. Sign up for local emergency alerts via text, email, or phone. Many communities have systems like reverse 911 to notify residents.
• Radios. Use reliable sources like NOAA Weather Radio or emergency apps to receive alerts.
• Weather and news updates. Monitor weather reports and news for updates on potential threats. Keep a battery-powered or hand-crank radio for reliable access to information.
• Understand the risks. Familiarize yourself with the types of disasters common in your area, whether tornadoes, floods, or earthquakes.

Protect Your Home

• Insurance. Review and update your insurance policies to ensure adequate coverage for natural disasters.
• Home safety measures. Secure heavy furniture, reinforce windows, and clear gutters. Install and frequently check batteries in smoke detectors and carbon monoxide detectors. Ensure they are functioning.
• Utilities. Know how to shut off water, gas, and electricity. Keep tools accessible for these tasks.

Practice and Review

• Drills. Conduct regular drills with your family to practice evacuating and using the emergency kit.
• Review plans annually. Update your emergency plan and kit regularly, especially after major life changes (e.g., a move, birth of a child).

Community Involvement

• Volunteer. Join local emergency response teams or community groups focused on disaster preparedness.
• Share information. Educate neighbors and family members about emergency plans and encourage them to prepare.

By following these steps, you can ensure that you and your family are prepared for unexpected disasters, reducing the risk and impact when they occur.

Additional Resources

• Ready.gov. Comprehensive guides on emergency preparedness.
• American Red Cross. Resources for disaster preparation and response.
• FEMA. Federal resources and guidelines for disaster management.