10 Key Steps to Preparing Your Home for Natural Disasters
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Preparation is a way of life—you must prep your home for natural disaster so you and your family will be safe and well-protected. Now — as the effects of climate change worsen with greater numbers of powerful storms — proactivity such as this can help to reduce risks considerably.
From hurricanes and earthquakes to snow storms, this article provides 10 essential steps to protecting your property and loved ones in a handy survival guide.
Know the Risks
The first step in preparing for natural disasters is to understand the particular type of disaster that may affect your area. Look into whether there are floods, tornadoes, earthquakes or hurricanes in your area to understand how vulnerable your home might be. This knowledge will help you determine the prevention measures you need to take so that when a disaster strikes, you are safe and ready; and react correctly. A risk assessment will help in planning and give you specifics that can guide your actions on how to best protect your family and home.
Have an Emergency Plan
A comprehensive emergency plan is critical to provide guidance for you and your family in case disaster unfolds. The plan should detail evacuation routes, pre-determined meeting locations and emergency services contact information. Make sure that every member of the family knows the plan—not forget it or let anyone get left out; and whether there are special considerations for pets, someone with a disability.
However, it is essential that you review and update your plan after any significant changes in circumstances (e.g. the addition of new family members or if construction starts on your property).
Prepare Your Home’s Exterior
Make sure you inspect your roof, windows and doors periodically for damages. Examine any vegetation surrounding your property and cut back overhanging trees and shrubs to prevent them from becoming a hazard in the event of high winds, and tether down or bring inside anything stored outside that could become invasive during heavy storms. Purchase storm windows and impact-resistant roofing materials to make your home more resistant to be hit by a hurricane.
Secure Furniture and Valuables
Furniture and other household items can become hazardous if improperly secured during a natural disaster. Fasten large furniture (i.e., bookshelves and appliances) to walls with anchors or straps so pieces will not topple during earthquakes or high-wind events. Also, take care to secure items like TVs, computer and artwork, to avoid any damages or theft.
Create an Emergency Kit
A well-stocked disaster kit is vital for making it through a natural disaster. Stock your kit with non-perishable food, water, flashlights and batteries, first aid supplies, any needed medications on hand, etc. Store your kit in an easy- access location and keep checking the contents for any expired items. You can also have multiple kits for your home, car or place of work if you need to evacuate.
Prepare Your Home’s Interior
In addition to securing the exterior of your home, it is essential to take precautions inside as well. Install smoke detectors on every level of your home and carbon monoxide detectors near sleeping areas. Invest in a fire extinguisher and ensure everyone knows how to use it. An essential toolkit for necessary repairs following a disaster is also good.
Have an Evacuation Plan
In some situations, evacuation may be necessary, so it is essential to have an evacuation plan in place. Familiarize yourself with local evacuation routes and ensure you have enough fuel in your vehicle for an extended trip. Protect essential documents like insurance policies, ID and birth certificates in a waterproof, quickly reachable area or upload them online (e.g. to your Dropbox)
Stay Informed
When a natural disaster has occurred, information can and does change rapidly. Keep updated with news and weather by listening to local news sources or downloading their apps to your phone. A battery or hand-crank powered radio ensures you will get emergency alerts even if the power goes out.
Practice Emergency Drills
This is just like the way you had fire drills in schools or workplaces, but practicing having your family run a fire drill at home with some important warning, every so often. This will educate all on what the plan for evacuation, and any other type of needed procedures in a disaster. It also helps you fix any issues that exist in your plan.
Invest in Insurance
Despite our best efforts, natural disasters can still damage our homes and belongings. Insurance can provide financial protection against such events, giving you peace of mind. Review your policies regularly to ensure they are up-to-date and cover all potential hazards in your area.
Disclaimer: This list is solely the author’s opinion based on research and publicly available information.
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