{"id":1834,"date":"2022-05-10T10:00:42","date_gmt":"2022-05-10T10:00:42","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.discoveryhomes.com\/blog\/?p=1834"},"modified":"2025-02-19T18:11:35","modified_gmt":"2025-02-20T01:11:35","slug":"be-prepared-disaster-preparedness-tips","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.discoveryhomes.com\/blog\/be-prepared-disaster-preparedness-tips\/","title":{"rendered":"Be Prepared: Disaster Preparedness Tips"},"content":{"rendered":"\n

The time to prepare for a natural disaster is when the skies\nare clear. Planning ahead and knowing what to do will make your family feel\nmore confident in the rare event of an emergency. Here\u2019s what to do to create a\ndisaster preparedness plan for your family and home.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Start with a plan<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

A clearly outlined plan is crucial for safety. It will help mitigate the effects of stress and uncertainties that occur during emergencies. Start by identifying the common types of disasters that are common in your area. For the Bay Area, that\u2019s typically wildfire, earthquakes, and sometimes flooding. Talk about the types of natural disasters that happen in your area and the respective safety procedures. \u00a0Take time to review the exit routes outside your home as well.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Establish a meeting place near your home for your family to gather in case you become separated or unable to return to the house, like a friend\u2019s home or community shelter area. Be mindful and plan for any special accommodations you may need for elderly or disabled family members.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Create a list of emergency contacts and make sure everyone\nhas the information (it\u2019s also helpful to program that information into your\nphone). Plan evacuation routes from your home and neighborhood, including alternate\nroutes in case of road closures. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

All adults and teenage family members should know where the\nwater, gas, and electrical lines are and how to turn them to off if directed by\nofficials. This will be important if you receive an evacuation order. Keep\nnecessary tools nearby and make sure everyone knows where they are.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Finally, don\u2019t forget about your pets! Because not all\nshelters accept pets, it\u2019s important to make a plan in advance. Figure out\nwhich shelters accept pets and make sure your pets are microchipped and have ID\ntags with your contact information.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Create an emergency supply kit<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

A basic disaster supply kit is meant to sustain your family\nfor about 3 days without electricity and basic services. Store this kit in a\nlarge waterproof container in an easily accessible area so you can quickly grab\nit and leave. Here are some things you should have in your disaster supplies\nkit:<\/p>\n\n\n\n