Disaster can strike at any moment, usually without warning. You could be left without gas, water, electricity, food or shelter for an extended period.
This is why it’s essential to set up a response plan and practice it in advance so you and your family can stay safe during a crisis.
Here are just a few steps you should take to disaster-proof your family.
What Type of Disaster is Most Likely to Occur in your Area?
Knowing what kind of disaster is most likely to happen in your area will help you learn how to prepare for it. This goes for both natural and human-made disasters.
For example, a fire requires different preparation than a tornado. Make time to do your research and figure out what is most likely to occur in your area.
This way you can make sure you and your family are thoroughly prepared.
Create your Family Disaster Plan
Discuss with your family the best ways to prepare for and respond to each type of emergency. Explain to your children why it’s important to make a disaster plan.
Your whole family may not be home when disaster strikes.
Be sure to consider the places that you frequent, like work and school, when making your plan. You may also need to make special arrangements for elderly family member and pets.
There are free family disaster plan templates on the Red Cross website to make planning even easier.
Build your Disaster Supply Kit
Having a fully stocked emergency supply kit packed and ready to go is vital. Stock enough survival food to last your family three days without outside assistance.
Also, make sure you have one gallon of fresh water per person per day. Other supplies to include are flashlights, batteries, first-aid supplies, clothing, blankets and medications.
For a full supply list, check out the FEMA website.
Practice and Maintain Your Plan
Discuss your plan with your family, especially your kids frequently, so they know exactly what to do in an emergency situation. Practice evacuation drills twice a year.
You can make it easier on yourself by maintaining your preparedness all year long. Enroll your older family members in a basic first aid and CPR classes.
Check your smoke alarms once a month and take advantage of fire sprinkler system maintenance providers like Nor Cal Fire Protection. Make sure your supply kit is always fully stocked. Regularly inspect the dates on your food and other perishable items to make sure they haven’t expired.
Preparing your family for an emergency is the best way you can ensure their safety. For more in-depth information on how to prepare your children for disaster, check out HealthyChildren.org.
Discuss with your family, make a plan and survival bag, and practice and review your plan periodically.
When it comes to emergencies, the more you know about them the better your preparedness to respond.
