by Melanie Nelson
While you take care to secure your home and family from many kinds of potential threats, there are some dangers, such as natural disasters, that you’ll need to prepare to respond to because they cannot be prevented. Not to mention, no family is exempt from the possibility of a fire. You can prepare, though, for both the unexpected and the expected. Today, we share some key information that every parent should know.
Educate Little Ones
Encourage home safety from a young age. Educate your children on what to do in the event of a fire. Let them know they should evacuate immediately without any of their belongings. Teach them how to dial 911 and when to use this number. Practice how to speak to the operator in the event of an emergency. Make sure they know their address.
Create a Game Plan
You should create a game plan for each type of emergency. Know what your family should do in the event of every emergency type. You should also have a plan on how to communicate if you become separated for any reason.
For instance, make an evacuation plan for a fire. Have at least two ways to get out of the house safely. If you have a second story, ensure your children know how to escape when fire prohibits them from getting to the first floor. Designate a meeting spot outside, far enough away from the house that everyone will remain safe. Additionally, practice the fire drill a few times per year.
While your area may not be prone to storms, you should still develop a plan in the event of one. For example, you’ll want to choose a location in your house away from windows, such as a basement or a closet.
Since earthquakes are ongoing problems for some areas, know what you would do if a major one hit. You may want to hide underneath a table. If one isn’t accessible to everyone, get close to an interior wall far away from any furniture or objects that could fall. Cover your head and neck for the duration of the quake.
Pack an Emergency Kit
Part of preparing for power outages, storms, and earthquakes includes having all the necessary supplies, including the following:
- Multiple size batteries
- Flashlights
- Battery-powered or wind-up radio
- Water
- Nonperishable food items
- First aid kit
- Cash
If you need to pack a bag for an evacuation, here are some items to include:
- Clothes for a few days
- Cell phone and charger
- Sleeping bags or blankets
- Copy of driver’s license
- Credit cards and cash
Digitize Documents
Digitizing important documents and storing them securely online can provide peace of mind and allow for quick and easy access in case of an emergency or natural disaster that could damage or destroy physical copies. In fact, you can scan multiple files, then for convenience, this tool can merge a PDF so you can combine files.
Prepare for Repairs in Advance
While you could wait until you need a tree removal company after an earthquake or major storm, you’ll have enough on your mind at that point. Relieve stress by finding one in advance. Choose a company that’s licensed, bonded, and insured. The cost will depend on the tree’s location and size. Make sure you always have at least this amount in savings in an emergency fund.
Always Be Prepared
Some events are unavoidable, so preparing for both the expected and unexpected is the best way to keep you and your family safe. By developing and practicing a plan, teaching your child how to use 911, building a first aid kit, digitizing important documents, and taking the necessary steps to stay safe and organized, you and your family can be far better prepared for the unexpected.
The restoration experts at Restoration Affiliates can help you get back on your feet in case of a natural disaster. Restoration Affiliates is a national network of independent, full-service disaster restoration companies. Call (855) 727-8254.
Melanie Nelson is a lifelong resident of Oklahoma and is no stranger to the crazy weather the state is infamous for. Starting her family made her take a special interest in disaster preparedness in order to protect her loved ones and everything they’ve worked so hard for. Through DisasterPrepared, she hopes to help others stay prepared … and stay alive.