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Preparing Your Home for a Natural Disaster

Medium 17 items · 1 hour
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testuser Published 2 weeks ago
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This checklist helps homeowners prepare their household for the first 72 hours after a natural disaster. It’s practical, easy-to-follow steps for families, pet owners, and anyone responsible for a home.

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  1. Create an evacuation plan with primary and secondary routes — Include multiple routes and vehicle info; consider flood/earthquake hazards.
  2. Choose and practice a family meeting point — Pick a nearby spot and an out-of-area contact; run a quick drill.
  3. Assemble a 72-hour supply kit for each household member — Review and refresh kit annually; store in an easy-to-grab location.
  4. Pack water (1 gallon per person per day for 3 days) — Include extra for pets and heat; rotate every 6–12 months.
  5. Pack nonperishable food and a manual can opener — Choose ready-to-eat items and comfort foods for kids/elderly.
  6. Pack prescription meds, copies of prescriptions, and hygiene items — Include at least a 3-day supply and any special medical supplies.
  7. Collect hard copies of important documents in a waterproof container — IDs, insurance, property deeds, medical info, and banking details.
  8. Create encrypted digital backups of documents to cloud and USB — Use a password and store a copy off-site or in cloud storage.
  9. Locate and label utility shut-off valves and the electrical panel — Identify gas meter, main water valve, and breaker box locations.
  10. Keep a gas shut-off wrench and water-valve tool accessible — Store tools near the utility area in a labeled container.
  11. Mark and label electrical circuits at the breaker panel — Label helps disconnect power to problem areas quickly.
  12. Prepare and check a first aid kit with essential supplies — Include bandages, antiseptic, pain relievers, and personal meds.
  13. Compile an emergency contact list and store printed + digital copies — Include local emergency services, insurance, out-of-area contact.
  14. Sign up for local emergency alerts and test a battery-powered radio — Enable wireless alerts on phones and keep a charged NOAA radio.
  15. Prepare shelter-in-place supplies: masks, plastic sheeting, duct tape — Use during chemical, smoke, or severe storm events.
  16. Secure heavy furniture, TVs, and appliances to reduce hazards — Anchor bookcases, strap water heater, and fasten TVs.
  17. Prepare a pet emergency kit and plan for special-needs household members — Include pet food, meds, carrier, and mobility/medical plans.
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