Natural Disasters: Are You Prepared?

Earthquakes, hurricanes, tornadoes, floods, and wildfires can strike without warning. Being prepared for a natural disaster can ensure you and your family's survival.
Things to do ahead of time
The best way to deal with a natural disaster is to prepare for it ahead of time. Here are some tips to get you started:
Post emergency phone numbers near the telephone.
Listen to weather forecasts, especially if a storm is predicted.
Know how to turn off utilities such as gas, electricity, and water.
Have an emergency escape plan. Familiarize yourself with escape routes, plan a way for you and your family to communicate or meet after the disaster passes, and educate yourself on safe places to go during a disaster.
Know the risks of a natural disaster occurring in your area. Contact your police or fire department to get information on whether you live in an area that is susceptible to earthquakes, hurricanes, tornadoes, flood, and/or wildfires.
Ask your police or fire department if there is a warning (e.g., siren) that notifies residents that a disaster is approaching.
Ask your police or fire department about fire laws, building codes, and suggestions for safety measures.
Make sure your home is structured properly (e.g., secure foundation, roof, chimney). If you live in a mobile home, make sure it is properly anchored and secured to the ground.
Bolt water heaters and heavy appliances to the floor; bolt tall, heavy furniture to floors and walls.
Display heavy objects on low shelves.
If you have a boat, make sure you know how to store it safely during a disaster.
Make an inventory of your possessions (along with receipts and serial numbers) and store it somewhere other than your home (e.g., your office, friend's house, safe-deposit box).
Store important documents somewhere other than your home (safe-deposit box).
Review your homeowners policy periodically to make sure you have proper coverage at all times and understand what's not covered.
Consider purchasing specific insurance coverage for earthquakes and floods.
Emergency supplies to keep on hand
In case of a disaster, it is important to have emergency supplies on hand. Start by putting together the following items in a portable, waterproof container:
First-aid supplies (e.g., bandages, antiseptic)
Canned goods, can opener
Several gallons of water
Battery-powered radio
Extra batteries
Matches
Flashlight
Toiletries, sanitation, and personal hygiene items
Special items for infants (e.g., formula) and the elderly (e.g., prescription medications)
Small amount of cash
Cell phone
Other items that you'll want to have readily available include:
Plywood
Plastic sheets
Sandbags
Shovels
Protective clothing
Extra bedding, sleeping bags
Copies of important documents (e.g., wills, birth and marriage certificates, driver's license, insurance policies)