OK, so moved into your new home, got the right insurance, the new lawn mower, unpacked all the boxes and then just went back to your life. That was everything. Right? Wrong. If you didn't create or update an emergency plan for your home and family, you could be putting everyone in danger. It is critical to be prepared well in advance for any disaster to keep your family as safe as possible. Preparedness sounds like a no-brainer, but even though the news is always full of fires, storms, tornadoes, and hurricanes, the majority of families don't have a plan for where to go or what to do if an emergency strikes.
Know Your Risks
Each area has different disaster risks. The internet is your best friend here. Look up your area to find out what is most likely to happen. If your area is at risk for natural disasters like tornadoes or hurricanes, your community likely has resources available for you. Get on the right mailing lists, websites, social media profiles, and texting lists, so you always know what's going on in your area. If you don't already get the WEAs (wireless emergency updates) from the national weather service on your phone, check with your wireless provider to make sure your phone is compatible and get those turned on ASAP. For more information, check out NOAA Weather Radio online. Download a variety of weather apps with alert systems from your phone or desktop app store.
Find the Right Shelter
It's important to understand what disasters require evacuation to a safer area, and which you can wait out in your home. Each different disaster has a different method to keep your family safe, and your community should prepare in case evacuation measures are necessary. Check with your local government for emergency services and locations. If you have kids, make sure to check with their schools and get familiar with their emergency response plans as well. That way, no matter what happens, you know your kids will be safe.
Evacuation Prep
City or town-wide evacuations can be panic-ridden and chaotic. The evacuation itself is dangerous because those who are unprepared are more scared and unsure what to do. Keep both you and your family calm and safe throughout the process by being prepared ahead of time. Have an emergency kit with a change of extra fuel, clothes, water, some candles, and food in your garage or car if you can. That way your family is ready at a moment's notice. Learn the evacuation procedures of your community, so you know how they will direct you in case of emergency. Always make sure to follow evacuation orders as quickly and calmly as possible. Evacuation is a last choice, so stalling because you "don't think its necessary" puts your family in danger and over-taxes emergency personnel. If there were any other options, your community would avoid the evacuation order.
Make sure to ask your real estate professional what disasters are frequent in your area before buying your home.
I am committed to helping you with your Real Estate needs and I work with a team of agents locally and nationally - so anywhere you have real estate needs, we can help you, and donate to your favorite cause! Some groups my clients have had me donate to are The Humane Society, Smile Train, Wounded Warriors Freedom Station, Second Chance Dog Rescue and Best Friends, to name a few.
For more than 20 years I have volunteered at the Humane Society, doing PFT program (pet facilitated therapy), where I brought puppies to children's hospitals, and Pets with Santa (picture taking with me as Santa, and people would then make a donation). I have also been active with On The Go, a service where I would drive folks who could no longer drive, to doctor’s appointments, grocery shopping, etc.