5 Things To Do Before a Disaster Strikes

Over on Prepared Housewives is a great post for new preppers.  It talks about 5 things that newbies should do before a disaster strikes.

The first thing is to "Read-up."  You need to be aware of the disasters that are more common in your area.  Is your area more prone to wildfires, earthquakes, tornadoes, hurricanes, floods, etc.  Here is a link to a cool chart to help you know what hazards might affect your area.

The second thing is to do is to "Board-up."  Once you know what disasters are most common in your area, you should try to figure out ways to keep them from destroying your home.  For floods you can construct flood walls to stop the water before it reaches your home.  For earthquakes you can bold things down.  For Tornados you should find a safe place in your home to hunker down. To help prevent wildfires from destroying your home try to use fire-resistant treated wood and materials when you build a home, also have a hose handy.  For hurricanes board up windows and bring important things inside. 

The third thing is to "Power-up."  Power is usually the first thing to go in a disaster situation so it is important to have an alternate power source.  A gas powered generator is the most popular option.  You also should find some powerless cooking options.  Some would be a Rocket Stove, an Apple-Box Oven, a Volcano, a Wonder Oven, or a Sun Oven.

The fourth thing is to "Stock-up."  Make sure that you get the basics to survive.  Make sure that you have:

• Water
• Food
• Pwerless cooking options
• Gas
• Survival Kits (1st Aid Kit, 72 Hour Kit, Emergency Bag
• Other Supplies (Phone with cord, water filters, heat sources, clothing, bankets, etc..)

The fifth thing is to "Pack-up."  It is important to have an evacuation plan.  Sometimes certain disasters leave you know choice but to leave.  Make sure you know where you will go and what you will take. 

For more information make sure you check out the post.