While it may be hard to predict when a natural disaster will strike, preparing for a disastrous situation doesn’t have to be. There are many things that you can do to get ready, and having the proper knowledge and supplies can mean the difference between life and death in a disaster. Whether you’re facing hurricanes, earthquakes, or wildfires, knowing the things you need on hand can help you take decisive, life-saving action if a natural disaster comes your way.
Stock up on the essentials
Stocking up on essentials is one of the most important steps in emergency preparedness. That includes having enough food, water, and other supplies to last at least a week. During disasters, clean water might be unavailable, so store bottled water to last several days, estimating one gallon per person per day. You’ll also want to ensure enough nonperishable food is stored. Stick with food items that do not require refrigeration, and if you include canned food in your disaster supplies, be sure you have a manual can opener. Finally, keep a fully stocked first aid kit and at least a week’s worth of medications, including first aid and prescription medication.
Prepare your house and car
Your preparations will vary depending on what type of natural disaster you’re facing. For hurricanes and tornadoes, this could mean boarding up your windows to reduce damage. In areas prone to earthquakes, take the time to secure your home by bolting appliances, water heaters, and furniture to the walls or floors. It’s also critical to know where the gas valves are in your house and how to turn them off safely. Another key preparation is to fill the gas tank in your car, especially if you think you might need to leave the area quickly to avoid danger.
Stay informed
If a storm, fire, or other threat is approaching, staying informed is your best defense. Tune into local radio or television stations, or better yet, keep a NOAA radio handy for real-time updates. These tools allow you to stay ahead of any developments and evacuation orders, keeping you calm and prepared in a potentially chaotic situation. One smart move is to identify the best channels for emergency information ahead of time. That way, you’ll know where to find the information you require in a critical situation, and which routes to take to avoid floodwater, first responders, or traffic jams if you need to evacuate.
Prepare yourself for any situation
Basic preparedness can make a huge difference in your ability to make it through any natural disaster. It’s also smart to plan for a range of possibilities, even ones that may seem unlikely. Even if your home isn’t in a flood zone, safeguard your important documents by keeping them in a waterproof and fireproof container. Losing important papers can make post-disaster recovery more difficult. If you own any animals, make sure your emergency plans include them. Ensure pets have tags, and that their microchip information is up-to-date, which can be vital for reuniting with your pets if separated.
While disasters are unpredictable, emergency preparedness doesn’t have to be. Taking action now and in the early stages of the situation gives you a better chance of effectively preparing for a disaster and protecting what matters most.
If you need help preparing for a disaster in your Portsmouth rental property, Real Property Management Infinity is ready to support you. We provide valuable resources, tips, and localized information to keep you safe. Don’t hesitate to reach out to us online or call 757-395-4274. We’ll help you build a strong disaster preparedness plan you can count on.
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