Your Household Guide to Preparing for a Natural Disaster
Most safety strategies are straightforward enough, but natural disasters are challenging to prepare for. Fortunately, there are ways to keep your home and family safe in the face of storms, fires, and other emergencies. Get ready for any natural disaster scenario with the below guide from No Violence Now.
Use Home Safety Products
Staying safe at home starts with acknowledging potential hazards. Consider these essentials when preparing for emergencies.
● Make a habit of checking smoke detectors and replacing batteries once or twice a year.
● Select fire extinguishers for home use and learn how to use them.
● Install — and frequently check — household carbon monoxide detectors; power outages or damage to your home can cause carbon monoxide seepage.
● Research and read reviews on recommended products before purchase.
Prep for Disastrous Weather
Nature can have a severe impact on your home and your family's safety. Prepare for big storms by protecting and equipping your home.
● Install shutters, check your roof and gutters, and repair them as needed to weatherproof against wind and rain.
● Clear dead trees before storm season; you can find local tree pruning companies that offer preventative and on-call services.
● Consider a battery backup system or generator for backup power during outages.
Drill Survival Strategies
Especially for families with children, preparing for disasters goes beyond stockpiling goods and clearing brush. Develop an emergency plan and collect supplies, then practice regular drills as a family so everyone understands what to do if disaster strikes.
● Make a fire escape plan and practice fire drills as a family.
● Set an evacuation plan for severe weather and fire scenarios.
● Gather a kit of survival supplies and keep essentials stocked; top up your reserves and check expiration dates every few months.
Natural disasters may be unpredictable, but following this guide to getting ready can help you breathe easier during an emergency. Thinking ahead offers peace of mind, but it can also ensure the safety of your family if disaster does strike.