In Case of Emergency Preparation: How to Be Ready for an Emergency

The past few years were record-breaking years for weather and climate-related disasters. From extreme heat, droughts, and floods to severe storms and wildfires, natural disasters were widespread.  According to Climate.gov, in the last two years, 40+ different billion-dollar disasters occurred in the U.S. alone.  Disasters… In Case of Emergency Preparation: How to Be Ready for an Emergency as published on Women Who Money The past few years were record-breaking years for weather and climate-related disasters. From extreme heat, droughts, and floods to severe storms and wildfires, natural disasters were widespread.  According to Climate.gov, in the last two years, 40+ different billion-dollar disasters occurred in the U.S. alone.  Disasters and other emergencies are not something anyone wants to experience. But no one is immune. Yet, many of us need to prepare. A recent survey indicates that over half of us don’t have basic supplies to withstand a natural disaster. That’s not to mention an emergency plan and adequate insurance. ‘In case of emergency preparation’ benefits everyone. It helps keep you and your family safe in a crisis. And it can lessen the psychological impact of a traumatic event. So, if you’re among those who feel unprepared, read on. Below are five basic steps to prepare for an emergency. They include an emergency plan, emergency kit, family meeting, insurance review, and more. In Case of Emergency Preparation How you prepare for an emergency isn’t as important as getting started. Even if you don’t get everything done right away, it’s better to be somewhat ready than not ready at all. As you prepare, consider your family’s unique circumstances and needs. For example, location, health, medical issues, age, and even finances could factor into your plan. #1 Make an emergency plan. Consider the types of emergencies most likely to occur where you live. For example, Are you in a flood-prone area? Do you live in a region that experiences earthquakes, tornadoes, or hurricanes? Do wildfires or extreme heat pose a threat? See FEMA’s National Risk Index and learn about risk factors in your area. Once you assess your risk, determine how you can lower it. For instance, can you get specific insurance or take precautions to lessen the impact? Next, decide what you would do if faced with different emergencies. How will you respond? Where will you go? How will you respond? Different emergencies call for different responses. So first, consider the most common risks you and your family face. Then create and write down a plan for those emergencies.* For example, house fires are a common risk for nearly everyone. So, your plan should include preparing for and dealing with fire. Everyone should know basic fire safety and how to use fire extinguishers in this case. And, of course, they should know how to escape a fire.  *Your family members’ ages and health needs will impact your emergency plan. And if you have pets, remember to include them. Where will you go? Whether you need to shelter in place, evacuate your home, or leave your local area, know where to go.  Where can you safely shelter at home if you must shelter in place? How will you escape your home in case of fire or flooding? What evacuation routes will you use if you have to leave home in a widespread emergency? What’s a backup route? What are the emergency procedures if you’re at work or school? How will family members connect if they cannot return home?  Where can you safely shelter if you need to leave home? If you have time to prepare for evacuation, you might take extra steps:  Shut off utilities to the home and unplug unnecessary electronics (if needed).  Grab your emergency kit (go bag) Wear and bring appropriate clothing and footwear. Let others know where you are going and your route.*  *Use Facebook and the American Red Cross Safe and Well websites to let others know you’re okay. #2 Build an emergency kit and “go bag.” Gather emergency supplies beforehand to save time and ensure you have what you need to stay safe. Below are some suggestions to get you started. Gather the basics. Everyone needs a few critical items in their emergency kit; basic survival needs like