Every U.S. state and territory is at risk of disasters, therefore, the question is when, not if a disaster strikes. Disasters disrupt thousands of lives every year, leaving behind lasting effects on people and property.

After a disaster, many others in your community need help as well. For this reason, local first responders and other assistance may not be able to reach you right away.

You and your family can take simple steps now to prepare for emergencies. By doing so, you take back control—even in the uncertainty of disaster.

Benefits of Planning Ahead 

There are many benefits to planning ahead for disasters. The most important benefits are staying safe and helping yourself and your community recover. Taking simple actions to protect against disaster helps you, your family, your community, and your country in important ways. People and families that plan for emergencies will: 

• Help keep people safe
• Limit property damage
• Know what to do during and after a disaster
• Better manage their savings
• Support community preparedness
• Help their community get back up and running after a disaster.

How to Prepare for Disasters

To prepare yourself and your family for a disaster, you should:

1. Know Your Risks– Understand the risks you and your family may face. Most communities face many types of hazards. It is important to learn the risks specific to your home and the ways to assess your risks if you are away from home. Know how and when to take action before, during, and after different hazards.
2. Make a Plan– Make a communications plan and prepare for both evacuating and sheltering. Prepare for your family’s unique needs with customized plans and supplies. In addition, use your social networks to help friends and family members prepare and participate in community-wide disaster preparedness activities. Moreover, you should gather emergency supplies and secure the information and important documents you will need to start your recovery
3. Take Action– Put your plan into action. Be ready and able to face disasters, no matter where you are and when they occur. It is important to get the insurance you need and understand your coverage options. Moreover, you should make a list of your personal property and its condition and protect your property by considering how to minimize damage. Practice your disaster plans, take advantage of existing alert and warning systems, and explore ways to serve your community.

Follow the blog this month, as we post more information from ready.gov on how to prepare for emergencies. Below you will find links to great resources published by ready.gov on how to prepare for disasters and why preparing is important.