Everyone understands the importance of emergency preparedness, but few people are actually ready to survive a disaster at a moment’s notice. We learned this firsthand when the novel coronavirus, also known as COVID-19, turned the world upside down. The pandemic has spread with incredible speed. In fact, your daily routine likely flipped on its head in a matter of days.

Millions of people went from a steady day job with social activities sprinkled in on weeknights and weekends to staying home, except for essential trips to the grocery store. Shelves were stripped bare—first of toilet paper, then of bleach and hand sanitizer, and finally of food staples. This is what it’s like to live through a disaster of global proportions.

Right now, the primary focus for most people is to reduce stress and avoid their coronavirus exposure. Still, it’s important not to let emergency preparedness fall by the wayside. After all, wildfires, floods, and tornadoes won’t stop just because everyone is distracted by the COVID-19 pandemic.

Now more than ever, you recognize how important it is not to let your guard down. Here are some basic tips to protect your home and family from COVID-19 and natural disasters this summer.

COVID-19 Safety Tips

  • Know the signs and symptoms of COVID-19. Stay home if you don’t feel well. Seek emergency medical attention if you have persistent chest pain or breathing difficulties.
  • Wash your hands regularly, cover your nose and mouth when you sneeze, and disinfect frequently touched surfaces in your home.
  • Offer to help your vulnerable neighbors with things such as grocery shopping, picking up prescriptions, and walking the dog. Just be sure to wear a face mask and social distance.
  • Stay at least six feet away from anyone not living in your household.

Emergency Preparedness

  • Create an emergency plan with your family .
  • Remain informed of incoming storms by tuning in to your local radio station, news channel, or NOAA weather radio.
  • Sign up for emergency alerts from your state or local public health department.
  • Create emergency preparedness kits for each family member. In addition to the regular essentials, include soap, hand sanitizer, disinfecting wipes, and two cloth face coverings per person.
  • Add important phone numbers to the contact list on your phone, and write them down on a piece of paper as well.
  • Keep personal records—such as birth certificates, insurance policies, and Social Security cards—in a waterproof container. A fireproof safe or safety deposit box is even better.

Perhaps most importantly of all, take care of your emotional and mental health during this time. COVID-19 has put everyone on edge, so take breaks from news stories and social media. Enjoy your newfound downtime by picking up a hobby and doing activities at home with your family.

DKI is here to help with all your disaster recovery needs, including storm damage and coronavirus outbreaks. For answers to your questions, or to schedule services, please call us anytime at 844- 354-2255 and request 24/7 assistance.