Category Archives: Emergency Tips

The Most Common Natural Disaster in the United States

house-flooding

It may surprise you that floods are the most common natural disaster in the United States.   This is followed by tornadoes and fires.  Based on the frequency of Presidential Declarations, floods and severe storms account for more than 50% of the disasters in all subregions of the United States.  In other words, no region in the U.S. is exempt from flooding.

According to FEMA the following are the most frequent causes of flooding:

  1. Tropical Storms & Hurricanes
  2. Spring Thaws
  3. Heavy Rain
  4. Fire-Stricken Hills (combined with moderate rain)
  5. Levees & Dams
  6. Flash Floods
  7. New Urban Developments (combined with moderate rain)

flood-damage-repair-money

Flood Preparation

So what can you do to prepare for a flood?

  1. Get an Emergency Kit
    Make sure you have the basics in a ready-to-go kit.
  2. Make a Plan
    Consider evacuation routes and an appropriate meeting place for your loved ones.
  3. Stay Informed
    Learn about your local warning systems and pay closer attention to the news during severe storms.  See your current flood risk right now!

As with all disasters…they’re unpredictable.  Planning in advance can do wonders for your comfort and stress levels before, during, and after an emergency.

Survival Away From Home: Your Car

car-blizzard-storm-survivalEmergencies, disasters, and accidents happen when you least expect them.   This is no surprise to most of us.  But what may surprise you is that the average American spends more than two hours per day in the car.  That equates to more than 10% of your daily schedule.  If you commute to work, shuttle kids around all day, or work in a field that requires frequent travel, you are likely spending even more time behind the wheel.

Below are ten items (in no particular order) you should have in your car at all times to be prepared:

  1. water (or water filtration bottle)
  2. food
  3. blanket (or survival sleeping bag)
  4. flashlight
  5. radio (hand-crank radio if possible)
  6. cash (small bills)
  7. waterproof matches (or lighter)
  8. distress signal (whistle or signal mirror)
  9. walking shoes
  10. first-aid kit

California Earthquake ShakeOut

According to the USGS, earthquakes are the most costly natural hazard faced by the United States.  Most people associate California with earthquakes, but quake fault lines are scattered all over the states.  This map clearly shows the areas that face the most danger.

earthquake-magnitude-map-united-states-us

However, California is packed with people and lies on some of the most vulnerable faults.  Fortunately, they are preparing well.  On October 15, California will host the Great California ShakeOut to raise awareness on earthquake safety.  This event originated in 2008 and is sponsored by CEMA (California Emergency Management Agency), the USGS Earthquake Hazards Program and many more.  It’s sure to be an informative and timely event.  If you live in California, be sure to register.  If you don’t, you can still learn some valuable tips.

So, are you prepared for the next earthquake?  Take this fun interactive earthquake quiz to test your knowledge.  And don’t forget to have an earthquake kit handy.