Prepare for Natural Disaster
Complete step-by-step checklist to prepare for natural disaster covering identify local disaster risks and secure outdoor patio items, and essential action items.
Identify local disaster risks
Know if area is prone to floods, storms, or quakes
Secure outdoor patio items
Bring inside lawn chairs, pots, and toys during storms
Stock backup emergency goods
Buy water filters, canned goods, and batteries
Protect home windows
Check storm shutters or tape glass panes for high winds
Monitor emergency radio alerts
Keep battery-powered radio tuned to local weather bands
Check property water drainage
Ensure lawn storm drains are clear of mud and leaves
Keep car parked in garage
Protect vehicle from wind or hail branch damage
Store sandbag defense kits
Keep sandbags ready in basement if prone to floods
Know nearest hospital route
Map alternative route to emergency room clinics
Verify home structure bolts
Confirm chimney and foundation brackets meet quake specs
Inspect sump pump check valves
Confirm pump discharges water away from foundation walls
Verify backup battery backup generators
Verify generator matches home power wattage limits
Clear backyard gutters blocks
Clean leaf debris to prevent roof edge water backing leaks
Inspect roof tiles shingle condition
Confirm roof tiles are tight and show no loose cracks
Store safety match kits boxes
Keep matches and candles in a waterproof container safe
Check basement wall crack status
Verify foundation walls show no signs of water leakage
Keep emergency local paper map
Save road maps of town showing high ground sectors
Verify home insurance flood riders
Confirm policy lists active coverage for rising water damage