Prepare Your Home for an Emergency

Introduction

In an ever-changing world, emergencies remain a constant, looming unpredictably on the horizon. From the wrath of nature in the form of hurricanes, floods, and earthquakes to human-induced crises like power outages, epidemics, or civil unrest, the unexpected can and does happen. 

However, the impact of these emergencies can be significantly mitigated with the right preparation. This guide offers a holistic approach to emergency preparedness, ensuring your home stands as a bastion of safety and security. 

By following the steps outlined here, you can know that you and your loved ones are well-equipped to face any challenge that comes your way.

By the way, you will inevitably find some repetition in this article. This is simply because there is some advice that applies to more than one area of the topic.

Essentials for Emergency Preparedness 

Are You Ready?

Check out this video courtesy of Pacific Gas & Electric

The Importance of Preparedness

Preparedness is not about living in constant fear but about adopting a proactive mindset. It’s about equipping yourself and your family with the tools and plans to confidently handle foreseable challenges. Being prepared can be the difference between panic and calm, and can often dictate the outcome of an emergency.

Water and Hydration

• Water Storage: The CDC advises every household to store a minimum of one gallon of water per person daily for at least three days. This caters to both drinking and sanitation. While many resort to standard plastic bottles, they may not be ideal for extended storage. Opt for durable containers like the Scepter Military Water Cans.
• Water Purification: Beyond storage, ensure you have means to purify contaminated water. This can be through purification tablets, filters, or even household bleach.

Fuel and Energy

• Fuel Storage: Fuel sources like gasoline, diesel, and kerosene are invaluable, especially if generators are your go-to during power outages. Store them in safe, specially designed containers such as the SmartControl fuel containers from Scepter, ensuring they’re kept in well-ventilated areas away from living quarters.
• Alternative Power: Consider backup power solutions like generators. Familiarize yourself with their operation and ensure you have a sufficient fuel supply.

Food and Nutrition

• Food Storage: Stock up on non-perishable food items that can sustain you for several days. Use airtight containers and store them in cool, dry places. Options include freeze-dried meals, canned goods, and nutrient-rich bars.
• Dietary Considerations: Always account for any specific dietary needs or preferences of your family when building your food stockpile.

First Aid and Health

• First Aid Kit: Equip yourself with a comprehensive first aid kit that can address everything from minor cuts to more severe injuries.
• Medications: Ensure a steady supply of essential prescription medications, and routinely check them for expiration.

Communication and Information

• Stay Informed: A battery-powered or hand-crank radio can provide crucial updates during emergencies.
• Device Preparedness: Keep communication devices like mobile phones charged. Having portable or solar chargers can be invaluable.

Documentation and Records

• Physical Storage: Secure vital documents such as insurance policies, identification, and bank records in a fireproof/waterproof container or safe.
• Digital Backups: Digitally back up essential documents, storing them on secure cloud platforms or encrypted USB drives for easy access.

Lighting and Visibility

• Light Sources: Power outages are a common emergency byproduct. Stock up on reliable light sources like flashlights and ensure you have an ample supply of batteries.
• Safe Storage: Store batteries in cool, dry places to prolong their lifespan.

For an exhaustive list of emergency preparedness supplies, consider visiting resources like www.ready.gov. This platform provides a wealth of information tailored to help individuals prepare for various emergency scenarios.

Here is some quite old but still relevant info from Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).

Preparing Your Home for Specific Disasters

Emergencies can manifest in various forms, and their nature often hinges on geographical location and inherent risks. Tailoring your preparations to specific threats can make all the difference. Here’s a streamlined guide on prepping your home for different emergencies.

Of course, you will know which of these potential emergencies apply to your home based on its location.

Severe Storms and Hurricanes

• Reinforce Doors and Windows: Install storm shutters or use plywood covers. Pay special attention to garage doors, which are often susceptible to wind damage.
• Secure Outdoor Objects: Anchor or store potential projectiles like garden tools and furniture indoors during storm forecasts.
• Evacuation Plans: If you’re in a hurricane evacuation zone, familiarize yourself with escape routes and have a predetermined safe location.

Floods

• Elevate Appliances and Utilities: Position electrical items above potential flood levels, using platforms or cinder blocks.
• Install Check Valves: These prevent floodwater from backing up into your home’s drains.
• Maintain Rain Gutters: Regularly clean gutters and downspouts to facilitate free water flow.

Earthquakes

• Secure Heavy Furniture: Anchor appliances, furniture and cabinets to walls to prevent toppling.
• Practice Safety Protocols: Familiarize everyone with the “Drop, Cover, and Hold On” routine during tremors.

Winter Weather and Extreme Cold

• Insulate Your Home: Ensure proper insulation to retain heat and seal gaps in doors and windows.
• Protect Your Pipes: Insulate pipes, especially those exposed to cold, and let cold water drip from faucets.
• Personal Protection: Make sure you have clothing and sleeping bags on hand that will protect you and your family against extreme cold in the event of power outages.

Extreme Heat

• Stay Hydrated: Drink ample water and avoid caffeine or alcohol.
• Cooling Measures: Use fans or air conditioning. If unavailable, spend time in air-conditioned public places.

Wildfires

• Create a Defensible Space: Clear flammable vegetation around your home and opt for fire-resistant plants in landscaping.
• Choose Fire-Resistant Building Materials: If building or renovating, select materials that can withstand fires.

Tornadoes

• Identify a Safe Room: Designate a small, windowless interior room on your home’s lowest level as a tornado shelter.
• Avoid Windows: Never watch a tornado through a window; flying debris can shatter the glass.

Remember, the key to effective disaster preparedness is not just having the right tools and plans but also regularly reviewing and updating them. Stay informed about potential threats in your area and adjust your preparations accordingly.

Preparing Specific Areas of Your Home

Different sections of your home have distinct vulnerabilities during emergencies. Addressing these specific needs can significantly enhance safety and functionality during crises. Here’s a consolidated guide:

Living Areas

• Secure Heavy Furniture: Use brackets or straps to anchor bookshelves, cabinets, and other hefty items to walls, preventing them from toppling during earthquakes or strong storms.
• Window Protection: For areas susceptible to hurricanes or tornadoes, install storm shutters or have plywood ready for boarding up windows.

Kitchen

• Gas Safety: For homes using gas, familiarize yourself with the gas supply shut-off to prevent post-disaster fires.
• Emergency Food Storage: Dedicate space for non-perishable emergency food supplies and rotate them regularly.

Garage and Outdoors

• Safe Storage of Hazardous Materials: Store flammable liquids and other hazardous materials securely, ensuring they’re out of children’s reach.
• Secure Outdoor Items: Anchor or store potential projectiles like garden tools and patio furniture.

Basement

• Elevate Appliances: For flood-prone homes, raise appliances like washers and dryers above potential flood levels.
• Sump Pumps: Ensure functionality and consider battery backups for power outage scenarios.

Bedrooms

• Emergency Kits: Equip each bedroom with a basic emergency kit, including essentials like a flashlight and whistle.
• Escape Plan: Ensure everyone is aware of escape routes from bedrooms, especially from upper floors, using windows or escape ladders.

Bathrooms

• Water Storage: The toilet tank (excluding the bowl) can serve as an emergency water source, provided it’s free from cleaning chemicals. Use a WaterBOB for bathtub water storage.
• First Aid Supplies: Store additional first aid items in the bathroom for easy access.

Windows and Doors

• Reinforce Windows: Install storm shutters or use marine plywood for temporary protection against flying debris.
• Secure Doors: Reinforce with deadbolt locks and ensure they have at least three hinges. In hurricane zones, opt for hurricane-certified doors.

Utilities

• Know Your Utility Shut-offs: Be familiar with water, gas, and electrical shut-offs to prevent hazards during specific emergencies. Make sure necessary shut-off tools are to hand.
• Secure Heavy Appliances: Anchor appliances like refrigerators to walls to prevent tipping during earthquakes.

Outdoor Areas

• Trim Trees and Shrubs: Regular pruning can prevent branches from causing damage during storms.
• Fire-free Zone: Clear all plant material away from the home if you are in a wildfire-prone area.

Roof and Attic

• Roof Inspections: Regularly check for wear or damage and replace worn-out shingles or tiles.
• Ensure Proper Ventilation: A well-ventilated attic can mitigate issues like mold growth and ice dams in colder regions.

Home Security

At all times and especially In times of civil unrest or other emergencies, ensuring the security of your home is paramount. Civil unrest can lead to situations where homes are at special risk from break-ins, looting, or other forms of property damage. Here’s how to enhance the security of your home during such times:

Reinforce Entry Points

• Doors: Ensure all exterior doors are solid and kick-proof. Consider upgrading to doors with a solid core and installing deadbolt locks. Reinforce the door frame and hinges for added strength.
• Windows: Install window security film or laminated glass to make them shatter-resistant. Consider adding window bars or grilles, especially on ground-level windows. Add thorny shrubs below ground floor windows as a deterrent.

Security Systems

• Alarms: Install a home security alarm system with battery backup. Ensure it’s monitored so that authorities are alerted in case of a breach.
• Cameras: Use security cameras around the perimeter of your home. Modern cameras can send real-time alerts to your phone if motion is detected.

Outdoor Precautions

• Lighting: Ensure the exterior of your home is well-lit. Motion-activated lights can deter potential intruders.
• Landscaping: Trim shrubs and trees near windows to eliminate hiding spots. Keep the property clear of items that could be used to gain entry, like ladders. There are some thorny shrubs that you can plant beneath windows as a deterrent.
• Perimeter Alarms: Consider driveway and perimeter alarms and perimeter fencing.

Safe Room 

Consider designating a safe room in your home. This room should be reinforced and contain essentials like water, non-perishable food, a first aid kit, and communication devices. It’s a place where family members can retreat to if there’s an immediate threat.

Stay Informed

• Local News: Stay updated with local news channels or radio stations for real-time updates on the situation outside.
• Community Alerts: Sign up for community alert systems or apps like Nextdoor that provide real-time information about local security situations.

Stay Informed

• Local News: Stay updated with local news channels or radio stations for real-time updates on the situation outside.
• Community Alerts: Sign up for community alert systems or apps like Nextdoor that provide real-time information about local security situations.

Neighbors and Community

• Neighborhood Watch: If possible, collaborate with neighbors to form a neighborhood watch group. There’s strength in numbers, and a collective effort can deter potential threats.
• Communication: Establish a communication system with neighbors, such as walkie-talkies or a messaging app group, to share information about any suspicious activities.

Preparing for Evacuation

In extreme cases, it might become necessary to evacuate your home. Have a bug–out bag ready with essentials and important documents. Know your evacuation routes and have a predetermined safe location to go to.

Mental Preparedness

Impending emergencies, including civil unrest, can be stressful and emotionally taxing. Ensure that you and your family members are mentally prepared. Discuss potential scenarios and responses with your family, emphasizing the importance of staying calm and making rational decisions.

Self-Defense and Personal Safety

In situations of civil unrest or when faced with a direct threat, personal safety becomes paramount. While securing your home is crucial, it’s equally important to be prepared to defend yourself and your loved ones with force,  if necessary. This is a potential scenario as old as time. Here’s a brief overview of self-defense considerations:

Lethal Methods

• Firearms: If you choose to own a firearm for self-defense, it’s imperative to undergo proper training. Familiarize yourself with the operation, maintenance, and safety protocols of the weapon. Regular practice at a shooting range can help you become more proficient and confident in its use. Remember, the use of lethal force is a grave responsibility and should be a last resort.
• Safety and Storage: Always store firearms securely, preferably in a locked gun safe, to prevent unauthorized access. If there are children in the home, this becomes even more critical. Ammunition should be stored separately.
• Blunt instruments and edged weopans: Do not discount these for ready self defense purposes. It can be as simplel as having a baseball bat to hand. Do your research and check local laws.

Non-Lethal Methods

• Pepper Spray: A common and effective non-lethal self-defense tool. It can incapacitate an attacker temporarily, giving you time to escape. Ensure you’re familiar with its use and aware of local regulations regarding its possession.
• Stun Guns and Tasers: These devices can deliver an electric shock that can incapacitate an attacker. While they can be effective, they require close proximity. As with all self-defense tools, training and familiarity with the device are crucial.
• Self-Defense Techniques: Consider taking a self-defense class. Learning basic techniques can empower you and provide confidence in handling potential threats.

Training and Awareness

Regardless of the self-defense methods you choose, training is essential. Being prepared isn’t just about having the tools but knowing how to use them effectively and responsibly. Additionally, always be aware of your surroundings and trust your instincts. Avoiding a dangerous situation is always preferable to confronting it.

Remember, the primary goal is always personal safety. While property can be replaced, lives cannot. Always assess the situation and use your best judgment. If escape or avoidance is an option, it’s often the best choice. Check out our post on situational awareness.

Financial Preparedness and Insurance

In the wake of unforeseen events, ensuring financial stability and having the right insurance coverage is paramount for a smooth recovery. Here’s a rounduup guide to bolster your financial and insurance preparedness:

Insurance Coverage

(Almost) needless to say, insurance is something you must have in place before disaster strikes.

• Review Policies: Periodically assess your homeowner’s, renter’s, and auto insurance policies. Ensure they provide adequate coverage for your assets and understand the nuances, such as the difference between replacement cost and actual cash value.
• Specialized Coverage: Standard policies might not cover specific disasters like floods, wind damage, or earthquakes. Depending on your location, consider additional policies tailored to your region’s risks.

Documentation and Inventory

• Home Inventory: Regularly update a comprehensive list of your possessions, supported by photos or videos. This documentation expedites the claims process and can be invaluable in the event of loss or damage.
• Safe Storage: Store essential documents like birth certificates, property deeds, and insurance policies in a fireproof and waterproof safe. Digital backups in secure cloud storage or on encrypted drives offer an additional layer of protection.

Emergency Fund

• Start and Scale: Begin with a modest emergency fund and gradually build it up. Financial experts often recommend saving enough to cover three to six months of expenses. And make sure a substantial portion of your emergency fund is cash on hand. Having it in the bank is pointless if the banks are closed and the ATMs don’t work.
• Purpose: This fund can cover immediate needs like temporary housing, food, and transportation if displaced, or costs that insurance might not cover.

Evacuation and Immediate Needs

• Budgeting: Anticipate the costs of potential evacuation, including hotel stays, meals, and transportation. Having a plan and budget in place can alleviate financial stress during emergencies.
• Cash Reserves: In scenarios where electronic transactions are compromised, like during power outages, having a small cash reserve can be invaluable. Having cash in the bank is pointless if the banks are closed and the ATMs don’t work.

Claims and Reimbursements

• Initiate the Process: In case of damage, promptly contact your insurance provider to kickstart the claims process.
• Document Everything: Before any cleanup or repairs, document all damages with photos or videos. Retain all receipts related to immediate repairs or essential purchases post-disaster, as they might be reimbursable or useful for tax deductions.

Additional Safeguards

• Safe Deposit Box: For added security, consider storing original critical documents in a bank’s safe deposit box, protecting against theft, fire, or natural disasters.
• Stay Updated: Keep insurance information readily accessible and up-to-date, ensuring you can swiftly get in touch with your insurance agent or company when needed.

By proactively addressing these areas, you can navigate the challenges post-disaster with greater confidence and resilience.

Evacuation Plans & Preparing Your Vehicle

In the face of emergencies, having a well-thought-out evacuation plan and a prepared vehicle can be crucial. It avoids panic and it’s one less thing you have to think about when all hell is breaking loose. Here’s a roundup guide to ensure you and your family can evacuate safely and efficiently:

Evacuation Planning

• Understand the Risks: Familiarize yourself with the types of disasters that could affect your area, such as floods, wildfires, or hurricanes. Each disaster may have different evacuation procedures.
• Plan Your Route: Determine multiple evacuation routes out of your area. This ensures you have alternatives if one route is blocked or unsafe.
• Stay Informed: Always follow the instructions of local officials. Your evacuation route may change based on the nature of the emergency.
• Communication Plan: Establish a family communication plan in case you get separated. Decide on a meeting place and ensure everyone knows the plan.

Preparing Your Vehicle

• Keep Fueled Up: Always keep your vehicle’s tank at least half full. Gas stations may be closed or unable to pump gas during power outages. If space allows, have spare fuel safely stored away from the house.
• Emergency Kit: Equip your car with an emergency kit. This should include essentials like water, non-perishable food, first aid supplies, a flashlight, batteries, and a multi-tool.
• Stay Updated: Download apps or tune in to local radio stations that provide real-time updates on evacuation routes, weather conditions, and shelter locations.

Bug-Out Bags for the Family

A bug-out bag is a pre-packed emergency kit designed to sustain you for at least 72 hours. Each family member should have one. Here’s what to include:

• Essentials: Non-perishable food, water, first aid kit, flashlight, batteries, multi-tool, and personal hygiene items.
• Clothing: Pack a change of clothes, sturdy shoes, and weather-appropriate gear.
• Important Documents: Copies of personal identification, insurance policies, medical records, bank account details, and other essential documents.
• Communication: A battery-powered radio, a fully charged power bank, and a list of emergency contact numbers.
• Special Needs: Consider the needs of infants, elderly family members, and pets. This might include baby food, medications, or pet supplies.
• Full Checklist

Returning After Evacuation

• Stay Updated: Before returning home, check with local officials to ensure it’s safe.
• Drive Safely: Be cautious of road hazards such as washed-out roads, downed power lines, or flooded areas.
• Inspect Your Home: Before entering, check for structural damage. Be cautious of potential gas leaks or electrical hazards.

By being prepared and having a clear plan in place, you can ensure the safety and well-being of your family during emergencies. Regularly review and update your plans and supplies to stay ready for any situation.

Last-Minute Preparations

When a disaster is on the horizon and warnings are issued, time becomes of the essence. Here’s a checklist to ensure you’ve covered all bases as the disater approaches, assuming you have warning:

Stay Informed

• Reliable Sources: Tune into local news, weather channels, and official government broadcasts. Avoid relying on hearsay or unverified social media posts.
• Emergency Alerts: Sign up for emergency alerts on your phone or via apps that provide real-time updates.
• Follow Instructions: Adherence to guidelines and instructions from local officials can make the difference between safety and peril.

Secure Your Home

• Outdoor Items: Retrieve and secure outdoor furniture, toys, tools, and any other loose items that could become projectiles in strong winds.
• Windows and Doors: Close, lock, and, if possible, board up windows and doors to prevent breakage and protect against flying debris.
• Utilities: Turn off and unplug non-essential electrical items. Know how to turn off your gas and water supply if required.

Charge Essential Electronics

• Power Up: Ensure that phones, radios, flashlights, and other essential devices are fully charged.
• Backup Power: Invest in portable chargers and ensure they are charged as well. Consider battery-operated alternatives for essential devices.
• Conserve Battery: Minimize unnecessary usage to ensure your devices last as long as possible.

Evacuate if Advised

• Don’t Delay: If local authorities advise or mandate an evacuation, act immediately. Delays can put you at risk.
• Essential Items: When evacuating, take your bug-out bags, emergency kit, essential documents, medications, and other necessary supplies.
• Safe Routes: Use the evacuation routes recommended by officials. Avoid flooded roads and watch for fallen obstacles.

Check on Neighbors

• Community Spirit: If it’s safe to do so, check on neighbors, especially the elderly, those with disabilities, or families with young children, to ensure they are informed and prepared.
• Share Resources: If you have extra supplies or tools, consider sharing with neighbors. Unity can make the preparation process more efficient.

Remember, while last-minute preparations can enhance safety, the best protection is early and thorough planning. Always prioritize the safety of yourself and your loved ones over property.

Bugging-In

We have mainly focused on scenario where an emergency indicates that we should evacuate and bug-out. But what if the indication is that we should stay put, humker down and bug-in?

A great deal of what we have gone over above applies. But here is an instructional video on bugging in:

Conclusion

The journey to ensuring your home is ready for any emergency is ongoing and requires consistent attention and adaptation. It’s not merely about ticking off a checklist once but about fostering a mindset of vigilance and proactive planning. 

By staying informed of potential threats, routinely revisiting and refining your emergency strategies, and conducting drills with your family, you solidify your readiness. The efforts you put into preparation today can be the very thing that safeguards the well-being of you and your family tomorrow. 

Always remember: Preparedness is not just about surviving a disaster; it’s about being able to thrive in the aftermath.

FAQs

1. How often should I review and update my emergency plan?

It’s advisable to review and update your emergency plan at least once a year. Additionally, consider revisiting your plan after significant life events, such as moving to a new location, the birth of a child, or acquiring a new pet.

2. Where can I find more information about potential disasters in my area?

Local government websites often have specific information tailored to your region. National agencies like FEMA, the Red Cross, and the National Weather Service also provide resources and updates on potential disaster threats.

3. Can I rely on my mobile phone during an emergency?

Mobile phones are crucial during emergencies, but they have limitations. Network congestion or power outages can disrupt service. Always have a backup plan, such as a battery-operated radio, and consider investing in portable chargers or solar chargers for your devices.

4. How much water should I store for an emergency?

It’s recommended to store at least one gallon of water per person per day, with a minimum supply for three days. However, if you live in a hot climate or have specific needs, you might require more.

5. What food items are best for long-term storage?

Opt for non-perishable items such as canned vegetables and fruits, canned meats, dried legumes, rice, pasta, powdered milk, and nuts. Rotate your stock periodically to ensure freshness and check expiration dates. Vacuum-sealed and freeze-dried foods can also last for extended periods.

6. How can I ensure the safety of my pets during an emergency?

Create an emergency kit for your pets, including food, water, medications, and familiar items to comfort them. Know which shelters or hotels in your area accept pets, and always have a secure carrier or leash on hand.

7. What should I do if I have family members with special needs?

Tailor your emergency plan to accommodate the specific needs of family members, whether they are elderly, have disabilities, or require regular medication. Ensure that their essential supplies are part of your emergency kit and consider their mobility and care needs when planning for evacuation or shelter.

8. How can I stay informed if the power goes out?

Battery-operated or hand-crank radios can keep you updated during power outages. Some models also have built-in phone chargers. It’s also a good idea to have a list of local AM/FM radio stations that broadcast emergency alerts.

9. Should I evacuate or shelter in place during a disaster?

The decision to evacuate or shelter in place depends on the nature of the emergency. Always follow the guidance of local authorities. For some disasters, like tornadoes, sheltering in place in a secure location is often advised. For others, like hurricanes or wildfires, evacuation might be necessary.

10. How can I help my community during a disaster?

Consider joining local community emergency response teams (CERT) or volunteering with organizations like the Red Cross. Being trained and prepared not only benefits you but can also be invaluable to your community during a crisis.