You can’t tell when a natural disaster will occur, and the damage that comes with it can affect different aspects of life. However, being prepared for different natural disasters will ensure less life disruption, manage the damage, and speed recovery.

The following will help prepare you for natural disasters.

1. Identify the First-Aid Team

A priority when natural disasters occur is keeping everyone safe. Getting training on basic first aid is necessary and vital for your preparation. If you’re in any situation, consider identifying those who can give basic care to others before help arrives.

2. Get the Necessary Safety Equipment

Every situation has specific ways and equipment to mitigate damage. With the right safety equipment, you can reduce the dangers in your immediate environment. Basic safety equipment includes first aid kits, fire extinguishers, and smoke detectors. Besides having basic safety equipment, ensure people who can use them correctly are available. This means getting training on how to use safety equipment.

3. Have Evacuation Routes

Facilities, including your home, should have safe evacuation routes to a safe location when emergencies occur. Other people should also know these evacuation routes and how to access them.

4. Have Insurance Coverage for Disasters

When disasters occur, the damage that comes with them can affect your home and source of income. Taking out insurance for disasters will help manage your losses. Ensure you understand the insurance policy and what it covers. Be sure that your insurance covers common natural disasters in your area.

5. Flood-Proof your Building

Flood damage is quite common, especially in areas with heavy rains. Install flood-proof barriers and flood vents to protect your home from flooding. You should also have flood plugs to prevent floodwater from entering sewer drains.

6. Have Supplies to Remove Ice and Snow

During winter, ensure you have ice and snow removal supplies such as sand and snow shovels and rock salt. If an emergency occurs, you won’t be stranded in your building with these supplies.

7. Have an Emergency Contact List and Update it

Proper communication is important when natural disasters occur. Ensure you have a list of people you need to contact during emergencies and the possible means to reach them.

Necessary Item to have During a Natural Disaster.

If you have to leave home after a natural disaster, ensure you have a bug-out bag containing the following essentials.

Food and Water

• At least three days supply of non-perishable food like pouched or canned food
• At least one gallon of water per person

Medication and Hygiene Supplies

• Hand sanitizers and wipes
• Sunscreen and insect repellant
• Basic first aid kit
• Dental care products, including toothpaste and toothbrush
• Personal hygiene supplies, including soaps

First Aid

• Antibiotics ointment
• Instant cold pack
• Pain medication
• First-aid tape
• Sterile gauze pad
• Roller bandages
• Hydrocortisone ointment
• Band-aids
• Compress dressing

Other Essentials

• Matches and lighter in a waterproof packaging
• Battery-powered radio with extra batteries or a crank radio
• Whistle
• Flashlight and extra batteries
• Sunglasses
• Extra cell phone battery