How you can prepare

Becoming a CERT volunteer is a great way to be prepared for disaster. Even if CERT isn't for you, there are simple steps you can take to prepare.

Make a plan

Make sure your family has a plan in case of an emergency. Before an emergency happens, sit down together and decide how you will get in contact with each other, where you will go, and what you will do.

Build a disaster kit

Building a family emergency kit is crucial. During emergencies, you will need to be self-reliant for a period of time. Consider two kits: a go-bag and a stay-at-home kit.

A go-bag holds the essential items you will take with you during an evacuation. It should be small and lightweight, like a backpack, and contain only the bare essentials: copies of IDs and vital documents, a 14-day supply of medications, extra phone chargers, and a few personal items.

A stay-at-home kit keeps you and your family ready for power outages and other longer-term issues. Include five to seven days' worth of food and water, personal grooming supplies, flashlights, a fire extinguisher, and copies of important documents.

Stay informed

You can stay informed in a number of ways. A battery-powered radio is great for times when the power is out. Before disaster strikes, know your zip code and whether you live in a hurricane evacuation zone. If you have special needs, contact 2-1-1 for services that may be available.

Know your neighbors

Houston-area residents have a long history of working together to recover from disaster. Getting to know your neighbors now will help you work with them when a disaster happens. It may also make you aware of people who are too elderly or too ill to plan or prepare on their own.