No one can predict exactly where the next major disaster will occur, so now is the time to prepare, writes trainer and author Bernice Ross.
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From 2024 to 2025, we experienced a relentless wave of ongoing disasters, from unprecedented fires in Los Angeles to hurricanes, floods, and tornadoes devastating communities across the United States.
No matter where you live, natural disasters and fires can occur. It’s time to stop procrastinating and make the necessary preparations to protect your property, yourself, and your loved ones.
The continuing fires in Los Angeles that have destroyed thousands of homes, businesses, and landmarks are a somber reminder of how devastating disasters can be. Emergency response teams are stretched thin and there is little they can do to stop the onslaught. Additionally, once an evacuation advisory is issued, residents can act within minutes.
Being prepared can not only save lives but also reduce losses. Here’s what you need to do:
Main preparation steps
1. Prepare an emergency bag and two “grab bags” for each family member.
Depending on the nature of the disaster, if evacuation is necessary, your home will need to be prepared and your family will need to have a “go bag” at home and at work/school. Be sure to include a whistle so searchers can find you if you become trapped.
food and water
Store at least 1 gallon of water per person per day for 3 days. Include foods that are easy to prepare without spoiling, such as canned goods, protein bars, and dried fruit. Don’t forget the manual can opener, cooking utensils, and other necessary tools needed to consume these items.
clothing and warmth
Includes one change of clothes, sturdy shoes, socks, and underwear, as well as a reflective emergency blanket and lightweight rain poncho for warmth.
baby needs
Be sure to include formula, bottles, diapers, pacifiers, and small toys for comfort.
Medical supplies and first aid kits
Make sure you have a 7-day supply of all prescription medications, a copy of your prescription, and any necessary equipment such as an inhaler or blood sugar monitor. Please remember to bring any necessary medication for your pet.
Your first aid kit should include bandages, painkillers, disinfectant, and an extra pair of glasses or contact lenses. Also include a face mask if you are in an area where there is a possibility of mold contamination from wildfires or flooding.
sanitary products
Pack travel-sized soap, toothbrushes, toothpaste, hand sanitizer, and feminine hygiene products.
lighting and power
Includes a flashlight, extra batteries, and a solar charger for your phone. A crank radio keeps you informed even during power outages. Portable power banks and backup batteries for essential devices are also important.
cash and documents
Store $500 to $1,000 in cash and important documents such as your driver’s license, copy of your passport, insurance policies and cards, deeds, emergency contact lists, certificates, etc. in a waterproof bag.
Update your bag contents, water, medications, etc. every 6-12 months. Make sure these supplies are easily accessible either near the front or back door of your car or in the trunk of your car. Be prepared to be alone for at least 72 hours.
2. Create a family emergency plan
Identify multiple evacuation routes and safe gathering locations. Make sure everyone in your family knows exactly where and how to evacuate in an emergency. Establish out-of-state contacts for family check-ins. This ensures communication even if your local network goes down. Text messaging often works even if calls fail, so prepare a communication plan that includes text messaging as your primary method.
3. Protect your home
Install fire-resistant landscaping to create defensible space around your property. Trim trees, remove dry brush, and store flammable materials away from structures. Xeriscaping, which uses little vegetation and lots of rock, is a big trend in areas experiencing persistent drought. Secure heavy furniture and appliances to prevent injury during an earthquake. This includes using earthquake straps on water heaters and securing bookshelves and other objects that could fall during an earthquake. In areas prone to hurricanes and flooding, consider storm shutters, reinforced garage doors, and waterproofing.
4. Document your belongings
One of the most important steps you can take right now is to take videos and photos of your home and possessions. Store these on an external drive in the cloud or in a fireproof box, along with receipts for big-ticket items. We update our inventory annually or after major purchases to ensure accuracy. Leverage apps like Sortly and Encircle to simplify inventory tracking and find resources for home repairs.
5. Stay up to date
Sign up for local emergency alerts and learn about evacuation zones and shelters in your area. Resources like FEMA’s apps and Ready.gov provide timely, up-to-date information you need in the event of a disaster. Monitor weather conditions through reliable sources such as NOAA Weather Radio. Order Crank Radio on Amazon to stay informed, especially if power, internet, or cell phone service is unavailable in your area due to a disaster.
6. Leverage AI and other predictive apps
Apps like MyShake (earthquake alert) and Wildfire Tracker provide real-time updates tailored to your location. Platforms like Nextdoor connect communities to provide up-to-date information and resources about local disasters. If you have cell phone service, many people use Facebook or X (formerly Twitter) to find out what’s going on, where evacuation centers are set up, and to help disaster victims. Get real-time feedback on the people volunteering their food and other services. disaster.
7. Participate in community preparedness
neighborhood planning
Work with neighbors to establish shared resources and communication networks. Create local emergency funds and supply pools to support each other during disasters.
volunteer training
Programs like CERT (Community Emergency Response Team) train individuals to assist with local disaster response efforts. Participation builds community resilience.
8. Prepare the fire
Fireproofing includes replacing wood shingles with fire-resistant roofing materials, such as metal or composite shingles, and installing fire-resistant vents to prevent embers from entering your home in the event of a wildfire. Contains.
9. Consider financial preparedness
Review of insurance
Make sure your insurance covers the full cost of replacing your home and belongings. If applicable, consider additional coverage for flood or earthquake damage.
emergency savings
In addition to cash on hand, maintain a savings account specifically for disaster recovery costs, such as temporary housing or repairs not covered by insurance.
10. Strengthen psychological preparedness
mental health
Disasters can take a huge toll on mental health. Familiarize yourself with local counseling resources and telehealth options for dealing with stress and anxiety.
Care for children and the elderly
Prepare explanations that are age-appropriate for the children and plan to accommodate older family members who may have mobility issues.
No one can predict exactly where the next major disaster will occur, so now is the time to prepare. Incorporating these steps into your daily life and being proactive is the best way to build a safer tomorrow for both you and your loved ones.
Bernice Ross, President and CEO of BrokerageUP and RealEstateCoach.com and founder of RealEstateWealthForWomen.com, is a national speaker, author, and trainer who has published more than 1,500 articles.
