National Preparedness Month: Preparing for Disasters Before They Strike

Disasters can happen anytime, anywhere, often without warning. Each year, they disrupt countless lives and cause lasting damage to homes and communities. September is National Preparedness Month; a perfect time to create your emergency plan and kit.

Build Your Emergency Kit

Emergency services may not be available right away. Prepare to be self-sufficient for at least 72 hours. Here’s what you need:

Basic Supplies:

• Water: 1 gallon per person, per day (3-day supply for evacuation, 2 weeks for home)
• Food: Non-perishable, easy-to-prepare items (same as above)
• Flashlight, batteries, manual can opener
• Battery-powered or hand-crank radio (NOAA Weather Radio if possible)
• First aid kit and 7-day supply of medications
• Cell phone with chargers
• Important documents (ID, insurance, medical info)
• Hygiene supplies, emergency blanket, extra cash, area maps

Add for Specific Needs:

• Medical equipment (glasses, hearing aids, etc.)
• Baby items (formula, diapers)
• Pet supplies
• Extra keys, two-way radios, games for kids

Consider Based on Local Risks:

• N95 masks, matches, rain gear
• Work gloves, duct tape, bleach, tools for home
• Extra clothing, blankets, and entertainment

Make a Family Plan

Talk with your family about local hazards, how to evacuate, and where to meet if separated. Plan how to communicate if cell networks are down. Assign a primary contact person outside your area.

Earthquake Safety

Indoors:

• Duck, Cover, and Hold — don’t run outside
• Stay in bed if already there; cover your head
• Avoid doorways unless sure they’re load-bearing

Outdoors:

• Stay away from buildings and power lines
• If near the coast, move to higher ground

In a vehicle:

• Pull over safely, avoid overpasses and power lines
• Stay inside the car until shaking stops

If trapped:

• Don’t light matches or shout
• Tap on pipes or use a whistle
• Cover your mouth and stay calm

Fire Safety

In fire-prone areas like Southern California:

• Check smoke detectors regularly
• Clear dry brush around your home
• Keep fire extinguishers and teach family to use them
• Always know at least two ways out of your neighborhood
• Evacuate immediately if ordered
• Keep your gas tank at least half full

Stay Prepared

Update your kit and review your plan at least once a year. Preparedness saves lives, reduces anxiety, and helps families respond effectively.

Information sourced from UNews