Catastrophic events, natural disasters, and other emergencies can occur anytime, often striking without warning. The National Centers for Environmental Information listed over 100 calamities in the past decade, from the 2018 California wildfires to hurricanes Sandy, Florence, and Maria, costing at least $1 billion in damage to property during their rampage.
For this reason, securing the personal safety and well-being of everyone in your household is a crucial part of being prepared for unexpected weather events and emergencies. Preparations can minimize the risks and provide peace of mind. K
You can rest knowing that you have taken precautionary measures like an evacuation plan, emergency kits, and a safe room in the basement or above ground.
Specialists from Lone Star Safe Rooms can offer safe rooms for sale designed for your specific needs. We provide custom solutions adding security to your property while staying within your desired budget. Our team can also provide you with tips for disaster preparedness.
Why Disaster Preparedness Is Essential
Being prepared for a disaster all year round provides many benefits. Your security matters, so preparations like 72-hour kits, escape plans, and safe room ideas can give security when untoward incidents occur. Here are some reasons you should prepare for disasters before they occur.
- Severe Impact and Life Disruption
Disasters can disrupt thousands of lives and have lasting effects on those experiencing them. Losses to property and life can be emotionally-tolling, impacting the lives of all involved.
- Peace of Mind
Preparing beforehand can alleviate some of the anxiety experienced before any impending calamity. Knowing that you have taken steps to mitigate risks can give you a sense of security, enabling you to respond with a level head and better efficiency when a disaster does occur.
- Relief Before Help Arrives
It can take up to 72 hours before help arrives when disasters strike. Your local government, first responders from your community, and disaster relief organizations will try to reach you as fast as possible. Still, if entire communities are affected, you should have enough supplies, so preparedness kits are essential.
- Protection and Safety
Besides having supplies for at least 72 hours, having a well-thought-out plan, evacuation routes, and a safe room in the basement or above-ground area can help provide protection and safety. In addition, you should practice safety drills to prepare you mentally for any emergency.
- Reduce Disaster Impact
Disaster preparedness can also help to reduce the impact of natural calamities. For instance, you can flood proof your property, seal leaks, reinforce structures, and shop for safe rooms for sale so you can reduce the effects of floods, fires, earthquakes, and other disasters.
- Improve Self-Sufficiency
Preparedness empowers you and makes you self-sufficient. It is important to note that you are first and foremost responsible for your health and safety. Preparing essential supplies and tools allows you to live independently, reducing your reliance on others for help. Preparedness also gives you a better sense of control, allowing you to handle any emergency better.
- Increased Resilience
Disaster preparedness all year round gives you access to food, water, medication, money, and essential supplies, giving you a better chance to bounce back from a calamity. You minimize the disruption to your life, facilitating a more efficient and faster return to normalcy.
What to Include in a Disaster Preparedness Kit
It is important to remember that the supplies you pack should last for at least 72 hours, which should be enough time while waiting for relief.
Here’s a quick checklist of things to include in any preparedness kit:
- Water for yourself and your pets.
- Non-perishable food.
- Pet supplies.
- Can opener.
- Cell phone with charger.
- Wet wipes and first aid kit.
- Clothing.
- Extra cash.
- Essential medication.
- Flashlight
- Battery-powered radio and extra batteries.
- Whistle, dust masks, and duct tape.
- Sleeping bags
- Personal sanitation items.
In addition to a 72-hour kit, it is vital to have a safe and secure shelter in your home so you don’t have to travel far for safety. This is where safe rooms can benefit homeowners.
The Value of Homes With Safe Rooms
Sometimes called a panic room, these secure locations inside your property protect you from untoward incidents. The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) recommends having safe spaces in hurricane-prone areas and providing guidelines for their construction.
Working with an experienced safe room provider gives you the opportunity to discuss what is best for your needs. The team at Lone Star Safe Rooms can provide you with accurate estimates so you can stay within your budget.
Custom Secure and Safe Spaces Within Your Budget
Lone Star Safe Rooms has been a trusted provider of FEMA-approved safe rooms since 2012. We provide builder-friendly solutions that can be retrofitted into your home without exceeding your budget. Fill out our online contact form today to get an estimate.