Alerting

Resolve to Be Ready in 2021

January 1, 2021

We’re all glad that 2020 is behind us and we have a fresh start for the new year.

Let’s resolve to be ready for life’s little disruptions and bigger emergencies and disasters. Here are some easy things you can do, starting today:

Make an emergency plan: choose a safe place to meet, learn evacuation routes, and establish an out-of-town contact.
Check your emergency kit for up-to-date food, water, medicine and other necessities.
Make sure every family member has a working flashlight.
Invest in your own safety – Buy and use a NOAA All-Hazards Weather Radio. If you have one, make sure it’s working and change the backup batteries.
Check your smoke and fire alarms. If you have ANY gas appliances or heaters in your home, or a wood burning fireplace or stove, make sure you have a carbon monoxide detector/alarm.
Take a current photo of you and your pet together in case you get separated during a disaster.
Get to know your neighbor and invite them to be a part of your emergency plan.
Snap photos of important documents and save them in a secure place or online.
Set up group text lists so you can communicate with friends and family during emergencies.
Take a class in CPR and first aid.
Keep and update emergency supplies; remember to include cash.
Have back-up power sources available to charge devices in case of a power outage.
Snap pictures of your property for insurance purposes.
Check your insurance for coverage on disasters like floods, hurricanes, and earthquakes.
Sign up for alerts and warnings. Download the FEMA app to get real-time alerts, safety tips, and locate open shelters.
Save for a rainy day! Start and grow your emergency fund.
Financially prepare for the New Year. Find out how with the Emergency Financial First Aid Kit.
Spend within your means. Use a personal budgeting worksheet to help plan for holiday expenses and beyond.
Build up your savings. Put a small amount in your account the first of every month beginning January 1.