© 2012 Naturesfury.net
Preventing loss of life and minimizing the damage to property during
natural disasters are responsibilities that are shared by all.

Throughout this Web site, information has been provided regarding actions that you can take based on specific natural disasters. The most important thing that you can do is to be informed and prepared. Chances of surviving a natural disaster increase when you take the time to plan ahead.

Disaster survival planing should include:
  • Developing a Family Plan
  • Having a Place to Go
  • Securing your Home
  • Having a Pet Plan

One of the most important decisions you will have to make is "Should I Evacuate?"
If you are asked to evacuate, you should do so without delay. But unless you live in a coastal or low-lying area, an area that floods frequently, or in manufactured housing, it is unlikely that emergency managers will ask you to evacuate. That means that it is important for you and your family to HAVE A PLAN that makes you as safe as possible in your home.

Disaster safety includes modifying your home to strengthen it against storms so that you can be as safe as possible. It also includes having the supplies on hand to weather the storm. The suggestions provided here are only guides. You should use common sense in your disaster prevention.
  • DEVELOP A FAMILY PLAN - Your family's plan should be based on your vulnerability to the type of disaster. You should keep a written plan and share your plan with other friends or family.
  • CREATE A DISASTER SUPPLY KIT - The disaster supply kit is a useful tool when you evacuate as well as making you as safe as possible in your home.
  • SECURE YOUR HOME - There are things that you can do to make your home more secure and able to withstand stronger storms.
  • ONLINE VULNERABILITY INFO - There are web sites that can give you information about your communities vulnerability to specific hazards. These include all weather related hazards.
FEMA online hazard maps                     NWS Stormready

Family Disaster Plan
  • Discuss the type of hazards that could affect your family. Know your home's vulnerability to specific disasters
  • Locate a safe room or the safest areas in your home for each hazard. In certain circumstances the safest areas may not be your home but within your community.
  • Determine escape routes from your home and places to meet. These should be measured in tens of miles rather than hundreds of miles.
  • Have an out-of-state friend as a family contact, so all your family members have a single point of contact.
  • Make a plan now for what to do with your pets if you need to evacuate.
  • Post emergency telephone numbers by your phones and make sure your children know how and when to call 911.
  • Check your insurance coverage - flood damage is not usually covered by homeowners insurance.
  • Use a NOAA weather radio. Remember to replace its battery every 6 months, as you do with your smoke detectors.
  • Take First Aid, CPR and disaster preparedness classes.