Prepare Your Home For Emergencies

When disaster strikes, it doesn’t discriminate. Whether you own a home or rent, the importance of being prepared cannot be overstated. Unfortunately, the reality is only 55% of people have an emergency water supply, while 82% have three days’ worth of nonperishable food. Don’t forget that emergencies can happen anywhere – at home, work, even in our vehicles. With that in mind, below are a few basic tips to get your emergency plan started:

  • Store a three-day supply of water (one gallon per person, per day) and at least a three-day supply of nonperishable food that’s easy to prepare. If you have pets, be sure to also set aside a three-day supply of food and water per pet.
  • Gather emergency supplies, such as flashlights, a can opener, battery-operated radio, cell phone charger, extra batteries, blankets, etc.
  • Purchase two first-aid kits – one for home and one to keep in your vehicle – and make sure everyone in your household knows where they are.

In addition to these tips, working smoke detectors and carbon monoxide alarms in your home could save your family’s life. While about 95% of U.S. homes have at least one smoke alarm, only 42% have a working carbon monoxide alarm. You should have a smoke alarm in every bedroom and level of your home, and a carbon monoxide alarm on each floor.

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