Emergency Prep + Supply Organization
Updated September 2022
Emergency Prep + Supply Organization
In 2020, I think we all got a clue into just how prepared we might be should an emergency strike. But, maybe there’s some things you haven’t thought about. Under the pressure of an emergency, it might be hard to collect your thoughts, so let’s make sure you are ready well in advance with some emergency preparedness solutions should an event such as an earthquake or fire occur.
Easy Access!
It’s essential that all of your emergency preparedness bag and items are stored in a single place. The last thing you want while trying to be quick is to run all over your house pulling things together. Mine is all in the garage at a height that’s easy for anyone in the family to grab and go.
Multiple Locations!
Aside from keeping your emergency supplies in an easy access location at home, consider keeping an extra supply in your car and at your office. You never know where you will be when an emergency happens.
Protect from the elements!
Store your emergency items in weathertight storage bins to keep them protected from smoke, water, or other kinds of damage.
Paperwork!
Keep your important paperwork in an easy to grab and go file box and be sure to make photocopies of all the important docs. Be sure to include passports, SS cards, deeds, wills, and insurance info. Keep all of these copies in a weathertight file box with the rest of your emergency supplies.
Sentimental!
Do you have old printed family photos that you want to protect or keep with you in the event of an emergency? Keep them in a photo storage box near your grab and go area, or make copies to take with you. It’s also a good idea to scan those photos so you have a backup if damage should occur to them.
Inventory!
Compile a list of all of the items in your home, especially the valuable ones, so you can keep track of any damage for insurance purposes. Keep this list in your file box.
Contacts!
Do you have your nearest and dearest's phone numbers memorized? Devise a plan to be in contact with your family and other loved ones in case your cell phone battery dies or you lose your phone altogether. Write down their phone numbers and addresses and store them in your file box. Create an emergency preparedness family plan, including meeting spots outside the home. This is very important in terms of earthquake safety precautions and wildfire safety precautions
Communicate the Plan!
All of this is great work, but if your loved ones don’t know about it, it’s not quite as effective. Make sure to share where important things are like emergency preparedness bag and paperwork. Enroll someone in your home to be in this with you!