After Oklahoma tornado: Five steps to prepare for a natural disaster

In the wake of the May 20 tornado in Moore, Okla., it's important to review how best to be prepared for a natural disaster. Here are five action steps for personal preparedness from the National Center for Disaster Preparedness at Columbia University's Mailman School of Public Health. 

3. Protect yourself and your family

For home: Assemble a home emergency supplies kit.

For evacuation: Assemble a "go-kit." Include: important documents; health records; home, car, and insurance policies; and photographs of important personal property on a CD or thumb drive. Know evacuation routes.

Plan for members of your family who are elderly or have special needs. Additional planning may be required for people with disabilities or other access and functional needs. Stockpile necessary medications and items for anyone in the family who has special needs – medical, developmental, or physical. Here is good national resource on comprehensive planning for seniors, elderly, and caretakers.

3 of 5
You've read  of  free articles. Subscribe to continue.