In an era of increasing uncertainty, in all areas of our lives, being prepared for disasters is more important than ever. Whether you’re facing natural disasters, infrastructure failures, or disruptions to digital services, a solid preparedness plan can make all the difference.
A Note on Information Access: Due to recent changes in government policy and the removal of some official websites, access to reliable online resources may be limited or inconsistent. I strongly recommend downloading or printing essential documents and guides in advance. Don’t rely solely on digital bookmarks, prepare for offline access. (This is also helpful for if your internet is unreliable in a disaster.)
No one wants to think about a disaster. Here on the Atlantic coast, it’s June and that means hurricane season. When life gets chaotic, following a checklist can be the difference between panic and preparedness. It’s one of the best ways to help you, your family, and your business stay resilient in any kind of storm.
Why do I care so much about this topic? While many of my tips are general, I lean toward hurricane-specific recommendations. I grew up on Eastern Long Island and still live in the metro New York area, where hurricanes are one of the most common large-scale natural disasters we face. My childhood was shaped in large part by Hurricane Gloria and by stories my grandmother told of the storm of ’38 and how it impacted my grandparents and, in turn, shaped my mother.
But it’s not just hurricanes. I’ll never forget the Pine Barrens Fire of 1995. I had been babysitting that day when the fire spread so quickly that it wasn’t safe for me to return home. I ended up staying with generous friends for a few days. That experience reminded me how fast things can change, and how important it is to have a plan, even for the unexpected.
Why do I care so much about this topic? While many of my tips are general, I bias . I grew up on Eastern Long Island and still live in the metro New York area, and hurricanes are one of our most common causes of large-scale natural disasters. My childhood was shaped in part by and stories of and how it impacted my grandparents.
Step 1: Assess Your Risks
Start by identifying the most likely disasters in your area. For me, it’s historically been hurricanes and flooding. But with longer periods of drought and increasingly high winds, I now worry more about wildfires than I have in years, especially living near a nature preserve. Climate change is shifting the risks we face, and what once felt unlikely may now be more probable. Depending on where you live, your concerns might include wildfires, earthquakes, or winter storms. Use local news, community forums, and trusted sources to stay informed and adapt your preparedness plan accordingly.
Step 2: Build Your Emergency Kit
Your kit should include:
- Non-perishable food and water for you and your pets (3-7 days)
- First aid supplies
- Flashlights and batteries
- Solar or crank-powered radio
- USB drive with important documents
- Printed emergency contacts, health information, and maps
- Cash in small denominations
Print checklists from multiple sources and keep them in your kit. If websites go offline, you’ll still have what you need.
Step 3: Store Critical Information Offline
I keep both a physical and digital emergency binder with essential documents. It includes copies of IDs, insurance policies, medical records, local evacuation routes, shelter locations, and our family communication plan. I also make sure to include emergency contacts, both printed and saved on a USB drive.
To protect these documents from water damage, I laminate many of them. I prefer using a binder over folders because it keeps everything secure and organized; papers are less likely to fall out or get misplaced. For digital storage, I use encrypted USB drives and keep one in my emergency kit and another in a secure location.
Step 4: Plan for Communication Disruptions
In the event of a disaster, I prepare for the possibility that internet and cellular service may be unavailable. I keep a battery-powered radio on hand to receive emergency updates. I’m exploring what backup communication tools are best for today. We have a family meeting point and a secondary locations in case we’re separated. In addition to emergency contacts, I carry a laminated card in my wallet with key medical information—something I’ve done for years. It’s a simple step that can make a big difference when digital access isn’t an option.
Step 5: Stay Informed, But Stay Critical
Staying informed during a disaster is essential, however I’m cautious about where I get my information. I follow updates from multiple sources and cross-check anything that seems uncertain. I avoid relying on social media, especially during emergencies when rumors can spread quickly. Instead, I look to trusted organizations and local community networks that have proven reliable over time. Being prepared also means being discerning, knowing how to filter out noise and focus on what’s accurate and actionable.
Bonus: Tools for Resilience
Preparedness isn’t just about getting through the emergency. It’s also about staying grounded and keeping your mind occupied when routines are disrupted. Alongside the essentials, I keep a few things that help me stay calm and focused.
I’ve downloaded offline apps for maps, first aid, and emergency alerts. These are especially helpful when cell service is unreliable. I also keep a printed map of my area in my binder. Sometimes, paper is the most dependable option.
There’s a book I’ve been meaning to read for a long time. It lives in my go-bag, waiting for the right moment. I also pack a small ball of yarn and a pair of knitting needles. Knitting helps me stay centered. And I always include a board game that doesn’t need batteries or Wi-Fi. These small comforts help pass the time and bring a sense of normalcy when everything else feels uncertain.
What’s stopping your from creating and maintaining a disaster preparedness plan today?
Note: This is a 2025 update of a post first published in 2016.
I plan to update this entire series in the coming weeks.