Although it may be hard to predict when a natural disaster will strike in Hanover County, preparing for a disaster situation doesn’t have to be. There are several things that you can do to prepare. In a disaster situation, having the right knowledge and supplies can emphasize the difference between life and death. Knowing what to do and having the things you need on hand can help you take decisive, life-saving action if a natural disaster ever happens on your doorstep.
Stock up on the essentials
If there is one thing that you can do well in advance of a natural disaster is to stock up on the essentials. This means having enough food, water, and other supplies nearby to last at least a week. In many disaster situations, you won’t be able to rely on clean tap water. That’s why it’s crucial to have enough bottled water stored to get you through several days. Plan on a gallon of water per person per day.
You must also ensure that you have enough nonperishable food on hand to last a week. Any food items that do not require refrigeration will do. If you have canned food in your disaster supplies, be sure you have a manual can opener, too. Finally, don’t forget about first aid and prescription medication. It’s best 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.
Prepare your house and car
Even if your preparations may be different contingent on what type of natural disaster you’re faced with, you have to still do what you can to be ready. For hurricanes and tornadoes, that can mean boarding up your windows, while for earthquakes, that means bolting appliances, water heaters, and large furniture to the walls or floors. Check if you know where the gas valves are in your house and how to turn them off. It’s likewise a good idea to fill the gas tank in your car, just in case you need to leave the area quickly.
Stay informed
As soon as you know that a storm, fire, or other threat is on the way, it’s important 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 to find the best channels for emergency information ahead of time, long before you need it. In this way, you will know where to turn for the information you need at a critical time. If you do 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 a long way toward helping you make it through any natural disaster. But remember that you have to plan for a range of possibilities. For instance, even if you don’t live in a flood zone, it’s an excellent idea to keep important documents, passports, and so on in a waterproof and fireproof container. Losing your important papers will only make your life harder after the disaster. Furthermore, if you own any animals, make sure that your emergency plans include them as well. Make sure they have tags or that their microchip information is up-to-date. This way, you increase your chances of being reunited with your pets afterward.
Though 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 Richmond Metro today or call us at 804-417-7005 for more information.
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