The first four months of this year have provided all sorts of weather challenges all over the country. We started the year off with record-breaking snow storms. In April, there were major tornadoes (over 300 in one day), and now flooding. What is going on with this weather?
Are you prepared for whatever weather disaster comes next? Read and find out!
There is more to worry about than the actual storm. You could experience long-term affects like power outages, flooding, wind damage, and more. Don’t assume you won’t experience a weather disaster just because it has never happened in your area before.
These tips will prepare you for any kind of disaster, so read on.
Do you have proper insurance coverage? When was the last time you discussed your policies or updated them with your insurance company or agent? It could be well worth your time to do this in the next couple of weeks. While you’re there, you should also ask about umbrella coverage if you don’t have it already. As the name implies, this is a general purpose policy which provides additional protection above and beyond your existing policies. It is a relatively low cost insurance that can make a huge difference if you have to file a claim.
Do you have a well thought-out evacuation plan? You can’t use a general plan created by someone else. Personalize yours to fit your needs. Here are some things to consider:
- Exit Strategy: Make sure everyone knows the quickest way to get out of the house in case of fire or other natural disaster. Seconds really do count!
- Meeting Place: Have an agreed-upon meeting place. The quicker you can do a headcount, the quicker you can move to locate anyone who didn’t make it out. Have 2 meeting place locations. One right outside your home (sidewalk or driveway) and the other off your property (friend’s house, library, or school).
- Contact Person: Specify one person to be the call receiver. If your family gets separated, and cannot get to one of those locations, the separated parties should text or call the main contact. This will save confusion and missed calls. Make sure everyone knows the contact person’s phone number or has it stored in their cell phones!
Do You Know How to Prepare for a Storm? Here are a few other general tips for you to think about. If a storm is forecast, make sure you:
- Have a full tank of gas. Gas stations can’t pump gas if the power is out.
- Secure your outdoor items so that they will not become airborne and injure you or someone else.
- Stock your disaster supply kit. In a serious storm, this could be well worth the effort. Include drinking water (at least one gallon of drinking water per person per day), food (canned, dry and other non-perishables which don’t require cooking, water, or special preparation – don’t forget a manual can opener), prescriptions and medications (three day supply recommended), first aid kit, flashlights, battery-powered lanterns, and AM/FM radio plus extra batteries.
- Prepare a pet supplies bag. Don’t forget your pets! They’ll need food, water, medications, and leashes.
This way you will be ready for whatever weather comes next. Is there something else that you do that I didn’t include? Tell me at JillRussoFoster.com
Jill Russo Foster a nationally acclaimed speaker and author of Thrive in Five: Take Charge of Your Finances in 5 Minutes a Day. She provides practical tips for every day finances. Learn more about protecting your credit and living within your means, with Jill’s popular free reports and bi-monthly ezine at jillrussofoster.com.
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