5 steps for natural disaster prep

Natural disasters can occur at any time. Being prepared ahead of time is key.

“Amplifying your safety now can help you and your family keep calm during an emergency,” said Tarsila Wey, director of marketing for First Alert. “Save yourself from potential stress by taking these steps to prepare for any natural disaster.”

PLAN FOR A NATURAL DISASTER

Emergency disaster drills are often conducted in schools, but rarely in the home. Plan for potential emergencies with your family before they strike.

CREATE AN EMERGENCY

DISASTER KIT

Keep a well-stocked emergency disaster kit ready at all times. Fill your kit with first aid items such as bandages, gauze, tweezers and cleansing wipes. Additionally, include a flashlight, transistor radio, a portable phone charger, extra batteries, a fire extinguisher and enough bottled water and perishable food items to last at least 72 hours.

HELP PROTECT YOUR HOME AND FAMILY

It is extremely important to never leave your generator inside your home or the garage, as they are a source of CO. CO is an odorless and colorless gas, making it impossible to detect without an alarm.

To protect your family from the threats of smoke, fire and CO, consider installing a First Alert Combination Smoke and CO Alarm with a 10-year sealed battery, which eliminates the need to replace batteries for the life of the alarm. Test your alarms monthly and be sure all smoke and CO alarms have a battery backup if hardwired. Install alarms on each level of the home and near every sleeping area.

KNOW FIRE SAFETY

Damaged powerlines, gas lines and other electrical systems pose a dangerous fire threat. Another potential danger is using candles during a power outage. Never leave any open flames unattended. In the event of a fire, a well-planned and practiced escape plan will be invaluable. Develop and practice your plan at least twice a year.

STORE YOUR VALUABLES SAFELY

Important documents such as insurance papers, birth certificates and passports are necessary when dealing with the aftermath of a disaster, so be sure they are safely stored. For maximum security, protect these documents as well as any family heirlooms or prized possessions by storing them in a waterproof and fire resistant safe.

This article is courtesy of Brandpoint.