As a recent hurricane hit my area, I realized just how vital it is to be prepared for emergencies. While we knew the storm was coming and most of our community was mentally prepared, no one anticipated the catastrophic disaster that followed. Just 50 miles from my home, the mountains were hit with massive flooding, submerged buildings, and a hospital that had to airlift 50 patients and 60 staff members from the roof before it too was submerged. Mudslides cut off roads, entire towns were wiped away, and many people remain missing. Sadly, many bodies have already been found. The state Department of Transportation has now confirmed that the entire western part of our state is inaccessible. This is a major disaster.
In my area, some people have been without power for five days, and grocery stores are closed. Our internet was down for three days, and cash-only transactions became the norm. While these issues may seem small in comparison to the destruction, many people aren’t prepared for even these smaller disruptions. Now is the perfect time to discuss disaster preparedness, and this post will cover key points for different groups of people.
Who Needs Disaster Preparedness?
This post is geared towards:
- Caregivers (parents and those caring for loved ones)
- Healthcare workers and other essential workers
- Parents of children with special needs
Though some tips overlap, each group faces unique challenges in a disaster. Let’s start with the common points.
Key Disaster Preparedness Tips for Everyone
1. Review Your Insurance Coverage
While homeowners insurance is often required, flood insurance may not be included. It’s important to check if your policy covers flood damage, burst pipes, or overflowing toilets. These issues can cause significant damage and expensive repairs, especially if you’re not able to do it yourself. Renters insurance is another essential consideration— it can cover personal belongings lost in a disaster and even help replace spoiled food in your refrigerator. The best part? Checking your coverage doesn’t cost anything.
2. Have Emergency Savings
Unexpected expenses pile up quickly during a disaster. Food costs rise when your family loses power, and replacing spoiled groceries can be expensive. You may even need to find a temporary place to stay. Having an emergency savings fund can relieve some of the financial stress in these situations.
3. Maintain Basic Supplies
Are your car’s gas levels always near empty? Make it a habit to fill up regularly. Do you have enough water for drinking and cooking? This is vital, especially during emergencies when you may lose access to water. Stock up on a few cases of bottled water and fill old jugs for other purposes, like flushing the toilet or cleaning.
Also, keep canned goods like soup and tuna on hand, as well as other easy-to-prepare food that can last. It’s essential to have enough food to meet each family member’s calorie needs for a day or more. Don’t forget a manual can opener!
4. Plan for Power Outages
If you live in a cold climate, it’s crucial to have extra blankets and a plan to stay warm during power outages. Is there a way to seal off part of your house to retain heat? Can you keep a safe alternative heat source, like a space heater or wood stove? Make sure you have enough money to leave and find shelter if staying in your home becomes unsafe.
5. Prepare a Go-Bag
In the case of tornadoes, floods, or fires, having a “go-bag” ready can be a lifesaver. Pack essential items like food, water, and medications. Don’t forget pet food, a flashlight, a first-aid kit, and extra cash—because you never know if or when credit card systems will go down during an emergency.
Going Beyond the Basics
This is just the beginning. Preparing for a disaster takes time. Not everything can be done overnight, and gathering necessary resources often requires careful planning. Over the next few posts, I’ll cover additional tips for specific groups like caregivers, healthcare workers, and parents of children with special needs.
For more specific information check out the Red Cross Tips
Stay tuned for more detailed advice in the coming days!