Catastrophes happen every day. Whether natural disasters like floods, tornadoes and hurricanes or man-made events such as vandalism, fires, or poor maintenance, you and your home could be at risk. Be prepared with several personal catastrophe planning tips.
Identify hazards in your home. Is your heating system up to date? Do you keep flammable materials in a safe location? Are rodents in the attic or wires exposed? Are steps and railings in good repair? These and other hazards affect the safety of your home, family and visitors.
Develop an emergency evacuation plan. Make sure everyone knows how to escape your home if there's an emergency. Map an escape route, practice using an escape ladder for second-story bedrooms, know how to stop, drop and roll, and set a meeting spot in case you need to evacuate. Ask a relative in another city to serve as a contact to handle communications if family members are separated.
Teach your kids their address and phone number. Children as young as three or four should know their personal information in case they get separated or lost.
Learn CPR and first aid. Knowing these skills can save a life. Stay current with trainings and keep supplies in a waterproof bag with your other emergency items. For broader planning resources and claim guidance, see Emergency Preparedness, Cybersecurity, and Insurance Claim Guidance.
Maintain emergency supplies. In a large waterproof container, stock flashlights, batteries, lanterns, rope, tape, basic tools, prescription medications, gloves, blankets and first-aid materials.
Stockpile water. Store at least one gallon of water per person per day for drinking, bathing and sanitation — experts recommend supplies for up to three days. Keep bottled water in a cool, dark place such as a basement.
Store enough food. Non-perishable foods can sustain you if power is out or fresh food isn’t available. Good options include canned meats and fruits, granola bars, peanut butter, dry cereal and preserved fruits. Remember a manual can opener, plates, napkins and utensils.
Remember your pet. Along with your family's supplies, store a small bag of dry food, potable water, identification and proof of current vaccinations for pets.
Practice for catastrophes at least once every six months. Refresh everyone's memory on what to do, update plans as needed, and replace expired supplies.
You don't know when a catastrophe will hit, but you can be prepared. Update your insurance coverage — consider Catastrophe Insurance or Personal Excess Catastrophe Insurance. If you need personalized help, talk to an agent.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much water should each person store?
Store at least one gallon per person per day for drinking, cooking and sanitation, and plan for a minimum three-day supply.
What items are essential in a basic emergency kit?
A basic kit should include a flashlight, extra batteries, a first-aid kit, necessary medications, a manual can opener, basic tools, and emergency blankets.
How often should we review and practice our evacuation plan?
Practice at least twice a year and review plans whenever household circumstances change, such as a new child, a mobility issue, or a new home layout.
Should pets have their own emergency supplies?
Yes; pets should have food, water, ID, and proof of vaccinations stored with your other emergency supplies to ensure they're cared for during an evacuation.