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.
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