plan * prepare * practice * Protect

Although it isn’t possible to prevent disasters, it is possible to take steps to protect yourself and your family from the potentially devastating effects of them. Protection from disasters can occur in a variety of ways:

• Assess your home and property and learn about natural disasters that can occur in your area.
  
• Identify whether your home or business are at risk for certain types of hazards, such as flooding.
  
• You may want to purchase flood insurance, as many home owners’ policies do not cover flood damage.
  
• If you reside in flood zone, elevate items most likely to be damaged, such as hot water heaters or a furnace.
  
• Keep copies of all important documents, such as birth certificates, in a water-tight container or plastic bag and store in a water-tight, fire proof safe. If you own any pets, such as a dog or cat, keep copies of their documents, such as vaccination records, in the safe as well. Pictures of you and your family with the pet(s) should also be kept in the safe, as it may help avoid ownership confusion in the event of certain emergencies