Disaster can strike anytime — but a few simple steps now will help protect your family and give you peace of mind. Here are five steps you can start today.
Build your support network and emergency contact list now, while things are calm.
Do this now:
• Add your support network to your phone or tablet, labeled as emergency contacts — and make sure they have your number too.
• Call them. Confirm they have your information and talk through what to expect in an emergency.
Turn on local alerts so officials can reach you the moment something happens.
Do this now:
• Enable your phone to receive local alerts and warnings. It's quick to set up — and it matters.
• When emergencies strike, public safety officials use wireless emergency alerts to “ping” every enabled device in the affected community.
Think through what you, your family, and friends would need — and act on it now.
Do this now:
• Add your medical information to your phone. (This article shows you how.)
• Build an emergency essentials kit for your home and a “go bag” for your car. Keep a charged power bank in each.
• Ask yourself about your needs for medical care, animal care, shelter, food, water, clothing, and more.
Protect the documents and belongings you'd need to recover after a disaster.
Do this now:
• Use your phone to photograph key documents and your valuables.
• Keep electronic copies password-protected on a flash or external drive and store in a fireproof, waterproof box or safe, or on a secure cloud service.
Make sure the people around you are as ready as you are.
Do this now:
• Share these tips with your closest friends and extended family and confirm they've taken the same steps.
• Discuss who may need extra help and designate someone to reach them in an emergency.
• Participate in a community preparedness event or initiative.
Find additional resources through a United Way near you.