How to Prepare Your Home and Family for when Disaster Strikes

Disaster. It's something we don't want to even think about, much less talk about. But talk you should. Every family member needs to know what to do in case of an emergency or disaster. Even the youngest members should know how to dial 911 or where to go or what to do in case of emergencies. This could very well save their lives, so teach them early.

First, call a family meeting to detail emergency plans and actions. These don't have to be complicated. Keeping it simple will make it easier to remember in times of crisis, especially for children. The first thing anyone should do is to alert others in the house. Scream, yell, or beat on the door; just make noise. Do this as you are making your way out. Make sure children understand that they should get outside as fast as they can. In case of a fire, the main thing is to get out and have a designated area outside the home for everyone to meet. You don't want Dad going back in to look for someone and they are on the other side of the street. Stress to them to get out and go to the designated spot. The same holds true with any emergency or disaster, have a pre-planned location and go to it. You can call for help after everyone is safe.

Second, prepare your home for emergencies and disasters. Smoke detectors save thousands of lives every year. Yet, I bet if you checked yours right now, chances are the battery is dead. Set two days a year to change the batteries, even if they don't need it. That way you will know for sure it is working. Have fire extinguishers in the home, especially in the kitchen and garage. And make sure everyone that is old enough knows how to use them. Don't take this for granted. Demonstrate this to children and adults. Also, have fire and rescue phone numbers posted in an established spot, both inside the house and out.

Keep first aid and disaster kits in your home. Disaster kits should include enough water for everyone in the house for several days. Canned and packaged food as well as any needed medicine, blankets, a battery-powered radio and fresh batteries. Several flares and matches should also be included.

You never know when a disaster is going to strike. You'll be much more likely to survive it if you have planned ahead of time. So do what you do best, take care of your family. Make sure they know what to do if the unthinkable happens.