While it may be hard to predict when a natural disaster will appear in La Verkin, preparing for a disaster situation doesn’t have to be. There are lots of things you can do to get yourself ready. In a disaster situation, getting the right knowledge and supplies will make the difference between life and death. Knowing what to do and having the things you need on hand will help you take decisive, life-saving action when a natural disaster strikes your area.
Stock up on the essentials
The best thing you can do well in advance of a natural disaster is to stock up on the essentials. It means having enough food, water, and other supplies provided to last at least a week. In many disaster situations, you won’t be able to rely on clean tap water. That is why it is best to have enough bottled water stored to stay hydrated for several days. Allocate a gallon of water per person per day.
You also need to ensure that you have enough nonperishable food on hand to last a week. Some food items that do not require refrigeration are convenient. If you add canned food in your disaster supplies, don’t forget to include a manual can opener, as well. Finally, remember about first aid and prescription medication. It is necessary to keep a fully stocked first aid kit and at least a week’s supply of medications on hand at all times, just in case of emergency.
Prepare your house and car
Although your preparations may be different based on what type of natural disaster you face, you should still do what you can to get prepared. For hurricanes and tornadoes, this could require boarding up your windows, and for earthquakes, that implies bolting appliances, water heaters, and large furniture to the walls or floors. You need to know where the gas valves are in your home and how to turn them off. It’s also a good decision to fill the gas tank in your car, in case you need to leave the area quickly.
Stay informed
Once you’ve heard that a storm, fire, or other threat is on the way, it’s imperative to tune into local radio or television stations or NOAA radio. You need good information to stay ahead of any developments and evacuation orders. One of the best things you can do is find the best channels for emergency information ahead of time, well before you need it. In this way, you will know where to turn for the information you need at a critical time. Before you leave your house, know which routes will help you best avoid floodwater, first responders, or traffic jams.
Be ready for anything
Basic preparedness can go far toward helping you make it through any natural disaster. But always remember to plan for a range of possibilities. For instance, even if you don’t live in a flood zone, it’s a smart move to keep important documents, passports, and other valuable items in a waterproof and fireproof container. Losing your important papers can only make your life harder after the disaster. Apart from this, if you own any animals, make sure that your emergency plans include them. Make sure they wear tags or that their microchip information is up-to-date. Because of that, you will increase your chances of being reunited with your pets eventually.
While natural disasters are unpredictable, emergency preparedness is not. You can take important steps now and in the early stages of the situation to ensure that you have what you need to make it through safely. If you have questions learning how to prepare for a disaster in your rental, contact Real Property Management Southern Utah today or call us at 435-673-4242 for more information.
We are pledged to the letter and spirit of U.S. policy for the achievement of equal housing opportunity throughout the Nation. See Equal Housing Opportunity Statement for more information.
