Natural disasters often happen with little warning. Being prepared can make a significant difference in how individuals and communities respond to these events. Here are essential steps everyone should take to enhance their preparedness:

1. Stay informed: Sign up for weather alerts and local emergency updates from local authorities to receive real-time information about impending disasters. Understanding the risks specific to your area will help you prepare more effectively. New Jersey 2-1-1 provides resource information that may become available during and after a disaster including food and shelter. You can dial 2-1-1 from your phone or visit www.nj211.org.
   
   
2. Create an emergency kit: Assemble a kit that includes non-perishable food, water, medications, first aid supplies, hygiene needs, flashlights, batteries, and a portable phone charger. Make sure the kit has items that meet your family’s specific needs including items for children, pets, elderly family members, and a plan for essential medication supply. An emergency kit should contain essential supplies to last at least 72 hours.
   
   
3. Develop a family emergency plan: Your plan should include communication strategies, evacuation routes, and meeting points. Make sure every family member knows what to do and where to go in an emergency. Regularly practice your emergency plan with your family. Conduct drills for different scenarios to ensure everyone knows what to do and where to go in an emergency. This practice can reduce panic and confusion during a real disaster.
   
   
4. Take photos for insurance purposes: Take detailed photographs or videos of your home and belongings, including furniture, appliances, and valuable items. This documentation can be invaluable when filing insurance claims after a disaster. Email the photos to yourself or save them in a secure cloud service.
   
   
5. Keep copies of essential documents: Secure copies of important documents such as identification, insurance policies, medical records, and financial information. Store these documents in a waterproof and fireproof container, or consider emailing copies to yourself or saving them in a secure cloud service.
   
   
6. Review and update your plan regularly: Your needs may change over time, so it is important to review and update your emergency plan and supplies regularly. Involve everyone in the family to make sure everyone understands their roles.
   
   
7. Seek legal assistance when needed: Disasters may result in legal needs like return of renter’s security deposit, insurance claim issues, FEMA eligibility, child custody arrangements, and various other issues. LSNJ provides free legal advice on these issues. Once you are in a safe location, you can contact LSNJ for help with your legal needs.

This information last reviewed: Nov 7, 2024