Storm Safety

When disaster strikes, there’s often very little time to prepare. Planning ahead now can help you respond later. Protect your family, pets, and home by following these smart safety tips long before storms appear in the forecast.

What To Buy

• Don’t wait until stores are running out of bottled water before stocking your emergency kit. Instead, visit the Red Cross website for a full list of recommended survival kit supplies and start buying the essentials now. Basics include nonperishable food and water for 3 days per person, a flashlight with extra batteries, and a first-aid kit that includes a 7-day supply of any medications and pet supplies.
• Stock up on any materials you’ll need to protect your home, such as plywood and nails for boarding up your windows and doors.

What To Gather

• Gather copies of important personal documents and keep them in a safe place. This includes medical information and medication lists, insurance policies, birth certificates, passports, and the deed or lease to your home. In the same place, keep a list of family emergency contact information and an envelope of emergency cash.
• You can also stash extra clothes and emergency supplies in your car. Make sure you always have enough fuel in your vehicle in case you have to evacuate quickly.

What To Plan

• Decide where your family and pets will go in case of evacuation. This could be a shelter, hotel, or the home of a family member or friend who lives out of town.
• Know your evacuation zone, evacuation route, and shelter locations. Map out your plan on paper and include alternative routes in case roads are closed. Consider doing a practice evacuation and driving your planned routes once or twice a year.
• Ensure your homeowners' insurance is up to date. Know what number to call and what information will be required if you have to file a claim later.

Buying supplies, gathering the essentials, and planning ahead can’t prevent disasters, but they can make you feel calmer and more confident if they do strike. Pick one small action item you can tackle this week and get a head start on preparing your home and family for the unexpected.