Coldwell Banker Realty
Debbie Goldberg, Coldwell Banker RealtyPhone: (203) 506-5846
Email: [email protected]

Natural disasters: Tips for making your home emergency plan

by Debbie Goldberg 03/16/2025

Depending on where you live, you're likely to be at risk for some type of natural disaster. Hurricanes and tropical storms, snowstorms, ice storms, tornadoes, flash floods, earthquakes and wildfires are among the many natural disasters many homeowners have to face regularly. Having a natural disaster plan prepared can help you know what to do if this type of emergency situation occurs. Use the following tips to help you come up with this kind of plan.

Make a list of supplies you'll need

Having a basic storm kit put together is an important part of getting ready for a natural disaster. Your kit should have supplies you and your household will need to remain safe before, during and after a natural disaster. It should include extra blankets and clothes, bottled water, non-perishable food, flashlights, a first aid kit and batteries. After making your list, gather these supplies and keep them in a storm kit you can grab when you need it.

Go over your evacuation plan

Some natural disasters might force you to evacuate your home, so it's important to know how you'll do so. Go over your evacuation plan, which involves becoming familiar with the evacuation route you'll take to get to safety.

Some places have designated evacuation routes for hurricanes and other natural disasters. Know where you'll go when evacuating, such as to a relative's house or to a hotel. Have a list of emergency contacts available as part of your evacuation plan.

Make note of shut-off valves

If a natural disaster is predicted for your area, knowing where these valves are ahead of time can help reduce the risk of damage to your home. Locate your water, electric and gas shut-off valves, so you'll know where they are in case you need to use them while preparing for a natural disaster. Don't turn off your gas unless officials in your area tell residents to do so.

Store important documents in a safe place

Store home insurance documents and other important documents in a safe place as part of your natural disaster plan. These documents should be kept in a fireproof, waterproof and highly secured safe if you're staying at home. If not, have them ready to carry with you in case of evacuation.

About the Author
Author

Debbie Goldberg

I'm a full time Realtor with over 30 years of experience yet young enough to embrace today's ever-changing scope of marketing and technology. Having grown up in Connecticut and moved many times (too many to count!) I can empathize with today's buyers and sellers. Strictly maintaining ethical standards and being a fierce advocate on behalf of my clients are things I take very seriously. As a buyer, you can expect me to listen to and evaluate your real estate wants and needs. I can assist in explaining relevant forms, agreements, and closing procedures. I will guide you through the process of finding the right home, negotiating your offer, adhering to all contract dates and terms as well as final walk through and closing procedures. As a seller, I will listen to and evaluate your goals, needs, and timing in order to properly price your home to get the maximum exposure needed to attract the right buyers. In addition to negotiating on your behalf, I will make sure we communicate throughout the entire process as we navigate the contract terms, finance and inspection contingencies, as well as all closing procedures. I was born in Japan, grew up in Hamden and lived in New York, Ohio and Southern California before settling down in New Haven county to raise two kids, two dogs and a cat. I'm passionate about good food and love to bake. Some of my free time has been spent volunteering at Temple Beth Sholom, a synagogue where my family has been members for over 40 years. I also spend time at Tower One/Tower East, an assisted living center in New Haven where my mother-in-law now resides. 30 years of helping buyers and sellers achieve their goals has given me the peace of mind to know that what I do everyday matters. If you are thinking of buying or selling please keep me in mind.