As National Preparedness Month comes into full swing, it’s important to take steps to keep your family safe. Disaster can happen anytime or anywhere so planning ahead and being prepared is always a good approach. EZ-ACCESS has created this list of simple steps to take in order to keep you and your family safe.
- Create a first aid kit.
Be sure to keep a first aid kit in your car, at home, at work, etc. Although we hope it’s never needed, this kit will be your next best friend and provides temporary support until you can get help. You should also have food and water in your kit in case you are stuck somewhere without access to essentials.
- Know where community shelters and food banks are near you.
If you are without food, water, or shelter, knowing where to find the necessities is extremely important. It’s also a good idea to check the shelter’s protocol for disasters so you know what to expect if you need to go.
- Sign up for phone alerts and warnings in your area.
These alerts will warn you of impending tornados, floods, or other natural disasters. It’s a great feature and can prevent injury and save lives. To be effective, these alerts need to be heard so be sure to set your phone settings to receive them at all times, no matter the time of day or night.
- Have an escape route or evacuation plan for your home and community.
Practice with an emergency drill and be sure to include your pets. Knowing how to get out of your home the quickest and safest way, along with knowing which roads to take as you leave town, will help you safely get out of harm’s way.
- Identify a safe point where everyone can meet if you get split up.
In the event someone gets lost or groups get split up, have a planned meeting place and a way to stay in communication with each other. One solution is to be sure that everyone has a walkie talkie in case cell service is lost.
- Take care of others during a disaster.
If you are able to go around and check on others safely, then do it. Look out for your neighbors and know which ones may not be able to leave their homes safely. Our elderly neighbors are particularly vulnerable, so please include them in your planning.
- For the upcoming cold weather, be sure to have extra supplies.
In your vehicle, make sure you have blankets, coats, hats, and gloves for each person in the car. If your vehicle breaks down or you are involved in an accident, you will be prepared with warm clothing to keep everyone safe and comfortable.
It’s always important to remember that disasters don’t plan ahead, but you can. We hope you never have to encounter a natural disaster, but if you do, being prepared can reduce panic and keep your friends and family safe. How do you plan to engage in preparedness actions this month?