If Disaster Strikes Are You Prepared?

September is National Preparedness Month, sponsored by the U.S. Department of Homeland Security. In a nationwide effort, we are encouraged to be prepared for a fire, flood, earthquake, and other disasters.  An ounce of prevention saves a pound of cure. So some forward thinking can prepare you and your family for the dreaded “what if.” Here are some starting suggestions for your preparedness this September.

 

Make room by decluttering

Making room for food storage can be a daunting task if you lack space in your home. Start your preparedness project  by clearing your home of unnecessary clutter. Get rid of all your expired and spoiled foods to see how much actual food you really have to eat.

 

Do a little more “nesting” now

Carefully analyze your home layout. If you do not have an extra closet or spare storage space, consider buying a free-standing food pantry. It could easily be placed in a room or hallway. Maybe re-purpose a linen closet and place towels and sheets elsewhere. Whatever location you chose, remember it  must be:

• Cool (75º F or cooler)
• Dry
• Dark
• Pestfree

 

What’s in your preparedness checklist?

Families should have at least a 3-month supply of food stored for emergencies, financial hardships or natural disasters. Here is a list of recommendations to consider for your emergency preparedness list:

·         Supply of water (one gallon per person per day)

·         Supply of non-perishable packaged or canned food; and, a non-electric can opener

·         Change of clothing, rain gear and sturdy shoes

·         Blankets or sleeping bags

·         First aid kit and prescription medications

·         Battery-powered radio, flashlight and plenty of extra batteries

·         Credit cards and cash

·         Extra set of car keys

·         Family physicians contact list

·         Listing of important family information (like serial numbesof medical devices such as pacemakers)

·         Special items for infants, elderly or disabled family members

 

Have a family chat

Speak to your children’s school about their shelter-in-place and/or evacuation plans. If your family’s cell phones were inoperable, determine how you would you get in touch with each other. Make sure everyone is on the same page, and talke about what family meeting place you would use and who would be the best,  out-of-town contact.

 

Ever since the September 11 attacks, Americans have been increasingly aware of the importance of being prepared for any kind of emergency. Planning ahead and even working with a professional organiser can help you and your loved ones prepare for emergencies. By taking the time to get organised you will be able to more effectively deal with any kind of emergency situation.

 

If you would like to learn more about how to prepare your family for an emergency, or have your home organised and prepared for a “what if,” call Little Miss Efficiency Organising Services and Consulting for a consultation at 702.673.0624 or info@littlemissefficiency.com. You can also listen to Little Miss Efficiency Organising Services and Consulting’s radio appearances that stream live worldwide, on KLAV 1230 AM – The Talk of Las Vegas at www.littlemissefficiency.com. Just click on the KLAV link.

 

Written by Wendy A. Miller, CEO and Founder of Little Miss Efficiency Organising Services and Consulting, www.littlemissefficiency.com, 702.673.0624. COPYRIGHT: This article may not be reprinted or quoted anywhere without written permission.  This email is protected by copyright. Copying of this article – or of any works presented or recommended by Wendy A. Miller – is strictly prohibited. These works may not be reprinted in any form on any website, blog, book, e-book, or any other form without the express written permission of Wendy A. Miller. All Rights Reserved.