Natural Disaster Preparedness Protocol

A protocol for preparing for and responding to natural disasters — earthquakes, hurricanes, floods, wildfires, severe storms, and power outages. Preparation phase (do NOW, before any disaster): (1) Emergency kit: 72 hours of water (1 gallon/person/day), non-perishable food, flashlight, batteries, first aid kit, medications (14-day supply), important documents (copies in a waterproof bag), cash (ATMs may be down), phone chargers (battery pack), and a weather radio. (2) Communication plan: Designate an out-of-area contact person (local lines may be jammed, long-distance may work). Ensure every family member has this number memorized. (3) Evacuation routes: Know two ways out of your neighborhood. Identify meeting points. (4) Home hardening: Secure water heater, know how to shut off gas/water/electricity. (5) Insurance review: Document possessions (video walkthrough of your home, stored in the cloud). During a disaster: (6) Follow official instructions immediately — evacuate if told to evacuate. (7) If sheltering in place: interior room, away from windows, under sturdy furniture for earthquakes. (8) After the event: Check for gas leaks (smell, don't use open flame). Check for structural damage before re-entering buildings. Conserve phone battery — text instead of call. Check on neighbors, especially elderly or disabled.

When to use it

Implement the preparation phase immediately — don't wait for a warning. Review and refresh supplies every 6 months (rotate food and water, check medications, update documents). When a disaster watch or warning is issued, shift to the 'during' protocol. Adapt for your specific geographic risks (earthquake vs hurricane vs wildfire).

How it can help

Preparation done before a disaster is 10x more valuable than decisions made during one. The 72-hour kit addresses the reality that emergency services may take days to reach you after a major event. The communication plan prevents the chaos of family members trying to reach each other through jammed local networks. The video documentation of possessions dramatically speeds insurance claims. Every item on this list is a concrete action you can take this weekend that may save your life or property when a disaster strikes.