Fifteen Things You Can Do Now To Be Prepared

Every emergency is different. Even the most diligent preparers don’t think of everything they’ll need on hand when the next crisis hits.

That said, there are any number of incremental steps you can take today that will prove useful in most emergency situations. Every step you take to prepare now makes you and your loved ones a little more resilient and able to endure the immediate aftermath of a major earthquake or other catastrophic event. For more emeregency preparation tips, visit ready.gov.

Quickest, Easiest Steps

1. Sign up to receive emergency alerts on your cell phone at publicalerts.org/signup 

2. Identify the location of utility shut-offs and keep needed tools nearby.

3. Set aside a small monthly budget to help you survive a financial emergency. 

4. Prepare and store up to 14 gallons of water for every member of your household; that’s a gallon per person each day for two weeks.

5. Acquire an portable charger for your phone and other mobile devices and keep it charged so you can communicate in the event of a power outage.

A Little extra effort

6. Build your preparedness community. Talk to nearby friends and identify neighbors you can team up with to become more resilient in crisis. 

7. Visit RedCross.org to donate blood and/or sign up for classes in CPR or first aid training.

8. Secure bookshelves, mirrors, light fixtures and other items that could fall and cause serious injuries in the event of an earthquake. 

9. Locate and safely store your critical documents, including passports, social security cards, passwords, insurance policies.

10. Talk to your doctor about obtaining a two-week supply of prescription mediations

11. Shop for non-perishable food for members of your household, including pets. Consider special dietary needs (e.g., infant formula). Include a non-electric can opener for canned food.

Going the Extra Mile

12. Prepare your family’s emergency kit. Beyond food and water, you’ll need flashlights, fire extinguishers, phone chargers and other items.

13. Develop a family emergency plan. Consider possible home evacuation routes, communication methods, reunification sites.

14. Create a emergency response kit for your car that includes blankets, flares, food, water and other items that can be of assistance in a roadside emergency. 

15. Help older adults in your care develop their plan, gather supplies, order medications, sign up for alerts and switch to electronic payments for monthly benefits.