Preparing for Natural Disasters

​Knowing the steps to take during extreme weather, whether a flood, wildfire, earthquake, hurricane, or tornado, can save your life and the lives of your loved ones. 

Preparing for Natural Disasters
By Pierre Mouchette | Bits-n-Pieces

Here is how to prepare beforehand to increase your chances of staying safe:
Knowing the steps to take during extreme weather, whether a flood, wildfire, earthquake, hurricane, or tornado, can save your life and the lives of your loved ones.  Here is how to prepare beforehand to increase your chances of staying safe.
 
Stay Informed
The sooner you know, the better you can prepare.

• Check with your local government agencies and sign up for their alerts
• Download the FEMA app for real-time weather and emergency alerts
• Get automatic Wireless Emergency Alerts via text (on newer cell phones)

 
Evacuate
Leave the area as recommended by government agencies
VS
Shelter in Place
Stay in a safe indoor location until the situation changes
Advisory - Stay Aware!
Non-life-threatening conditions are expected to occur near you
Watch - Be Prepared!
Severe conditions may happen near you
Warning - Take Action!
Severe conditions are expected to occur or are on their way
 
What To Pack In Your Emergency Go Bag
Pack emergency supplies you can grab and go if you need to evacuate quickly.

• Blanket
• Cash in Small Bills
• Copies of Important Documents (ID, insurance, bank account, medical records)
• Copy of Your Emergency Plan
• Extra Pair of Glasses or Contact Lenses
• Extra Batteries
• Flashlight (battery-powered or hand-crank)
• Local Map
• Personal Toiletries, Medications, and Prescriptions
• Phone Charger and Back-Up Battery Bank
• Ready-to-Eat Food and Water (Up to 3 days)
• Seasonal Clothing
• Small First-Aid Kit
• Small Radio (battery-powered or hand-crank)
• Pen and Notepad
• Whistle