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Why Prepare for Disasters?
November 14, 2012
As natural disasters continue to increase in frequency and intensity worldwide—driven by climate change, urbanization, and other factors—it’s only a matter of time before one impacts your area. Events like earthquakes, severe storms, floods, extreme snow or heat, wildfires, evacuations, prolonged power outages, or other crises can strike unexpectedly. The key to staying safe and managing effectively is having a solid, up-to-date emergency plan in place.
Family Emergency Planning
Start by discussing potential disasters with your family and explaining why preparation is essential. Involve every member—including children—in the planning process so everyone understands their role and feels included, which also helps address individual needs and reduces anxiety. Simple, clear steps can make emergencies feel less overwhelming.
A critical part of planning is assembling a disaster supply kit and "grab-and-go" bags (also called bug-out bags) for each family member. Store these in an easily accessible location that everyone knows about. Additionally, keep sturdy shoes and a flashlight (or headlamp) under each bed in case of a nighttime earthquake—secure them in a tied plastic bag attached to the bed frame to prevent movement during shaking.
Establish clear reunion plans in case your home becomes unsafe. Choose two meeting spots: one nearby (such as your front or backyard) and one farther away (outside your neighborhood) for evacuations. If driving may be required, keep your vehicle’s gas tank at least half full at all times and maintain an emergency car kit.
Map out at least two escape routes from each room in your home. Identify the locations of utility shut-offs (gas, water, and electricity) and teach everyone how to turn them off safely—especially important after earthquakes or during floods to prevent further hazards. Practice evacuation drills regularly and unpredictably, just like fire drills, to make responses automatic and reduce panic. Include shutting off utilities in these drills when appropriate.
Fire extinguishers are invaluable, but many people lack training. Ensure every capable family member learns the PASS technique (Pull the pin, Aim low, Squeeze the handle, Sweep side to side) using a home extinguisher.
Safety at Home
Earthquakes and strong storms can turn everyday household items into hazards. Conduct a room-by-room hazard hunt: secure tall furniture, bookcases, water heaters (with straps), and heavy wall hangings to studs. Move beds away from windows, relocate heavy objects from high shelves, and avoid placing large pictures above seating areas. Clear hallways of obstacles, and consider flexible connectors for gas appliances to prevent leaks.
Food
Disasters can disrupt access to food, water, and electricity for days, weeks, or longer. Current guidelines from FEMA and the Red Cross recommend storing at least a 3-day supply of non-perishable food and water per person (including pets), but many experts now suggest preparing for at least 2 weeks due to increasingly complex and prolonged events.
For short-term emergencies, focus on ready-to-eat or no-cook options: canned goods, energy bars, and meals that require only boiling water (such as freeze-dried or dehydrated pouches). These are ideal if you're evacuated, in a shelter, or without cooking facilities—dry beans or rice can be impractical without reliable heat and time.
For longer-term scenarios (1 month to a year), such as extended power outages, supply chain disruptions, or civil unrest, build a deeper pantry with foods your family already eats: grains, legumes, canned meats/vegetables, pasta, oils, and baking essentials. Reputable food storage companies offer pre-packaged 3-month, 6-month, or 1-year supplies in #10 cans or buckets designed for 25–30 year shelf life. These kits are balanced for nutrition and calories, making planning easier. Choose options matching your dietary preferences (e.g., gluten-free, vegetarian); you can customize by purchasing individual items if needed. Costs are often comparable whether bought as a bundle or separately.
Rotate stock regularly using the "first in, first out" method, and include manual can openers, portable stoves with fuel, and water purification tools in your kits.
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