Depending on where you live, you're likely to be at risk for some type of natural disaster. Hurricanes and tropical storms, snowstorms, ice storms, tornadoes, flash floods, earthquakes and wildfires are among the many natural disasters many homeowners have to face regularly. Having a natural disaster plan prepared can help you know what to do if this type of emergency situation occurs. Use the following tips to help you come up with this kind of plan.
Make a list of supplies you'll need
Having a basic storm kit put together is an important part of getting ready for a natural disaster. Your kit should have supplies you and your household will need to remain safe before, during and after a natural disaster. It should include extra blankets and clothes, bottled water, non-perishable food, flashlights, a first aid kit and batteries. After making your list, gather these supplies and keep them in a storm kit you can grab when you need it.
Go over your evacuation plan
Some natural disasters might force you to evacuate your home, so it's important to know how you'll do so. Go over your evacuation plan, which involves becoming familiar with the evacuation route you'll take to get to safety.
Some places have designated evacuation routes for hurricanes and other natural disasters. Know where you'll go when evacuating, such as to a relative's house or to a hotel. Have a list of emergency contacts available as part of your evacuation plan.
Make note of shut-off valves
If a natural disaster is predicted for your area, knowing where these valves are ahead of time can help reduce the risk of damage to your home. Locate your water, electric and gas shut-off valves, so you'll know where they are in case you need to use them while preparing for a natural disaster. Don't turn off your gas unless officials in your area tell residents to do so.
Store important documents in a safe place
Store home insurance documents and other important documents in a safe place as part of your natural disaster plan. These documents should be kept in a fireproof, waterproof and highly secured safe if you're staying at home. If not, have them ready to carry with you in case of evacuation.
About the Author
Marsha Charles
Consistent top listing and selling agent receiving Chairman's Club award for superior sales achievement almost every year while associated with Preferred Properties, Inc. Consistently receive the International Presidents Premier award for sales volume since joining Coldwell Banker Realty and ranked in the top 1% of agents in Connecticut and Westchester County. In 2021 I received the International Society of Excellence award for sales volume in excess of $100,000,000. I have been named a Top Five Sales Agent for customer satisfaction since 2010 (longer than any other agent in Connecticut) and listed in Connecticut Magazine. Named one of the Top Agents in Connecticut by Real Trends since 2018.
I work with sellers and buyers and also have a strong understanding to needs of those who are relocating . Background and experience in advertising, public relations and photography offer creative and innovative marketing plans for sellers.
Realtor designations include: Graduate Real Estate Institute, Certified Residential Specialist, Certified Residential Marketing Specialist, and Pricing Strategy Advisor. Served as President of New Canaan Board of Realtors (two terms), Director (three terms) and currently serve on Professional Standards Committee. Named Realtor of the year by the New Canaan Board of Realtors in 1994and again in 2022.
Married and mother of other of four children who attended and graduated from the New Canaan School System, Member of New Canaan, Darien, Greenwich and Statewide MLS systems. Areas covered include New Canaan, Darien, Greenwich, Rowayton, Norwalk, Wilton and all of lower Fairfield County.
