It’s all too easy to postpone emergency planning. After all, disasters don’t strike every day, so it can quickly become a case of “out of sight, out of mind.” National Emergency Preparedness Month each September serves as a yearly reminder to be as prepared as possible. Whether you’re updating your household’s emergency plan or creating one for the first time, here are some key aspects to consider.

Emergency Alerts

When disaster strikes, public safety officials alert the public in one of three ways:

  • Wireless Emergency Alerts (WEAs) appear on your mobile device, accompanied by a written message, verbal communication, and notification sound. These alerts are enabled by default to keep the public aware of severe storms and more.
  • The Emergency Alert System (EAS) is a national public warning system that allows the President to address the nation via television and radio.
  • NOAA Weather Radio (NWR) All Hazards is a nationwide network of radio stations that broadcast official weather warnings, watches, forecasts, and other information 24/7.

Shelter Plan

“Sheltering” can take many forms, including hunkering down at home, going to a mass care shelter, or sheltering in place (staying wherever you are when disaster strikes). No matter how or where you shelter, it’s important to stay informed and follow the instructions of local authorities.

Evacuation Routes

Sometimes evacuating is necessary to escape the threat. This can include exiting your home during a fire or leaving town as a hurricane draws near. Consider that you may need to have multiple routes in mind in case the primary way is blocked. This type of planning is vital to ensure a quick and safe evacuation, no matter the circumstances.

Household Communication Plan

Getting in touch with loved ones is more difficult during a disaster. After all, phone lines may become overloaded, and cell phone battery life can run out during a power outage. That’s why you should make a communication plan in advance. Digitally store the plan on your cell phone, print a copy for your emergency go-bag, and keep a physical copy in your wallet that you can carry with you wherever you go. Here’s what to include:

  • Household phone numbers and email addresses
  • School, workplace, and emergency phone numbers
  • Out-of-town emergency contacts
  • Local, neighborhood, and out-of-town meeting places

Emergency Preparedness Kit

Being prepared for a disaster means having enough food, water, and supplies to last for several days. As you build your emergency kit for everyone in your household, don’t forget to consider each family member’s unique needs, including:

  • Dietary restrictions
  • Prescriptions and medical devices
  • Disabilities
  • Pets or service animals

Disaster Restoration

Once you’ve done all you can to keep your home and family safe, you may have water damage, fire damage, or other destruction to contend with. DKI can help you recover. We are North America’s largest disaster restoration company, with over 200 locations and 24-hour response teams available to serve you. For more emergency preparedness tips or to request our services, please call DKI at 877-533-0210.