How to Prepare Your Home Before a Natural Disaster Strikes

Earthquakes, tornados, hurricanes and floods are an unfortunate fact of life in many areas. Here are some steps you can take to get ready before any kind of disaster occurs:

* Be prepared to spend up to 72 hours without utilities, medical help or communications.

* Start an emergency kit in a crushproof box containing bottled drinking water, a first aid kit, flashlight, non-perishable food, blankets, basic toiletries, a portable radio and extra batteries. Camping gear can also be valuable. Make sure your kit is up-to-date and easily available in a safe, dry place.

* Strap your hot water heater and any gas appliances to a wall. Turn off gas at the meter ONLY if you smell a leak. Leave your home immediately and call the utility company from a safe place.

* Hold a home evacuation drill. Have a plan for reuniting your family. Keep photos of family members in your wallet in case they turn up missing.

* Educate your children. Get a copy of their school's disaster policy regarding emergency transportation and student release.

* Keep a stash of cash hidden in the event that banks or automatic teller machines shut down.

Please let us know by phone or email if we can provide additional tips. We value having the opportunity to be your trusted real estate resource.

1 comment:

Flat Fee MLS Listing said...

Nice Post!!!! It is very important that homeowners who live in high risk zones be thoroughly prepared in case disaster strikes.