Be Better Prepared in 2021.

It’s the start of a new year and that means new beginnings and resolutions.  We challenge you to make a New Year’s resolution to get prepared for any type of emergency that could occur in 2021.  It’s never too late to start preparing, and the little effort it takes to pre-plan could save your life.  LPFPD4 can help get you prepared with a few simple steps: 

• Make an emergency plan: choose a safe place to meet, learn evacuation routes, and establish an out-of-town contact.
• Take a current photo of you and your pet together in case you get separated during a disaster.
• Get to know your neighbor and invite them to be a part of your emergency plan.
• Snap photos of important documents and save them in a secure place or online.
• Set up group text lists so you can communicate with friends and family during emergencies.
• Take a class in CPR and first aid.
• Keep and update emergency supplies; remember to include cash.
• Have back-up power sources available to charge devices in case of a power outage.
• Snap pictures of your property for insurance purposes.
• Check your insurance for coverage on disasters like floods, hurricanes, and earthquakes.
• Sign up for alerts and warnings. Download the FEMA app to get real-time alerts, safety tips, and locate open shelters.
• Save for a rainy day! Start and grow your emergency fund.
• Financially prepare for the New Year. Find out how with the Emergency Financial First Aid Kit.
• Spend within your means. Use a personal budgeting worksheet to help plan for holiday expenses and beyond.
• Build up your savings. Put a small amount in your account the first of every month beginning January 1.

By getting your emergency kits assembled and your plans in place, you can greatly improve your position if an emergency should occur.  For more information, visit www.ready.gov.