Actually Useful Disaster Prep Tips: Ensuring You're Ready When It Matters Most

Disaster preparedness is not just about having supplies — it’s about having a real action plan. Of course, a disaster preparedness kit, like those offered here in our store, are an essential part of being ready for emergencies, but knowing how to use your supplies, respond effectively, and stay adaptable is what truly keeps you safe..

Whether you're facing a natural disaster like a hurricane, wildfire, earthquake, or flood, or a man-made crisis such as a power grid failure or civil unrest, the key to survival is readiness, not reaction. This guide covers essential emergency procedures, survival planning, and practical preparation tips so that when disaster strikes, you’re ready.

Own a Survival Kit and Know What’s Inside

Having a survival kit is essential — but it's just as important to familiarize yourself with its contents. The best survival kit is the one you know how to use. Here’s what you should do:

Unpack and Inspect: When you receive your survival kit, open it, check every item, and ensure nothing is missing or damaged.
Test Your Gear: Learn how to use fire-starting tools, water purifiers, and emergency radios before you need them.
Restock & Customize: Some kits may not include specific medications, extra clothing, or personal items — make sure to add what’s necessary for your needs.
Rotate Supplies Regularly: Food, water, and batteries have expiration dates—set reminders to check them every 6-12 months.

Have a Clear Emergency Plan

Plan for Different Disaster Scenarios

Every emergency is different. Think through likely scenarios in your area and plan accordingly:

If an earthquake hits, where are the safest places to shelter?
If a wildfire spreads toward your home, do you know your evacuation route?
If the power grid fails for days, do you have an alternative power source?

Planning for these possibilities before they happen can make all the difference.

Establish a Communication Plan

Disasters often knock out cell towers and internet access. Have multiple ways to stay in touch with loved ones:

Primary Contact: Choose a family member or friend outside your area as your main contact.

Meeting Points: Establish at least two places to meet in case you’re separated—one nearby and one farther away.

Emergency Radio: A battery-powered or hand-crank radio is vital for receiving real-time updates when cell networks fail.

Signal Methods: Teach your family how to use whistles, mirrors, or flares to signal for help.

Plan for Evacuation or Shelter-in-Place

Know When to Stay vs. Evacuate:
- Shelter-in-place when it’s safer to stay indoors (like during a blizzard or chemical spill).
- Evacuate when staying puts you at greater risk (like during hurricanes or wildfires).
Keep Your Kit Accessible: Your survival kit should be in a grab-and-go location—not buried in the basement or attic.
Have Multiple Exit Routes: Roads may be blocked or congested—know at least two different evacuation routes in case your primary one is unusable.

Train Yourself and Your Family

Survival isn’t just about gear—it’s about knowledge and skills. Train yourself and your family in the following areas:

First Aid and Medical Preparedness

Learn basic first aid and CPR (local Red Cross chapters often offer courses).
Know how to treat wounds, burns, and fractures using the items in your survival kit.
If anyone in your household relies on daily medication, have at least a two-week supply on hand.

Fire, Water, and Shelter Basics.

How to start a fire: Use waterproof matches, lighters, and fire-starting tools.
How to find and purify water: If your bottled water runs out, know how to use water purification tablets or filters.
How to create a temporary shelter: If you’re stranded outdoors, tarps and emergency blankets can be lifesavers.

Defensive and Self-Protection Measures.

Be aware of self-defense options, whether it’s pepper spray, a tactical flashlight, or other protective tools.
If you live in an area prone to civil unrest, know how to secure your home and avoid dangerous areas.
In rural areas, wildlife encounters (bears, snakes, etc.) can be as dangerous as human threats—know how to deter them safely.

Prepare for Specific Disaster Types

Every Region Faces Unique Risks. Make sure your survival plan matches the specific threats in your area.

Earthquakes

Secure heavy furniture so it doesn’t tip over.
Know the safest places to shelter indoors (under sturdy tables or in doorways).
After the shaking stops, watch for aftershocks and be cautious of gas leaks.

Hurricanes and Flooding

Keep sandbags or water barriers if you live in a flood-prone area.
Have a wind-resistant shelter option.
Never attempt to drive through flooded roads—even 6 inches of moving water can sweep a car away.

Wildfires

Keep a fire-resistant mask to protect against smoke inhalation.
Trim trees and bushes around your home to create a defensible space.
If evacuating, wear cotton or wool clothing—synthetic fabrics can melt in extreme heat.

Power Grid Failures & Long-Term Outages

Have solar-powered lights and radios.
Store extra batteries and backup power banks for phones and medical devices.
If you rely on refrigerated medications, have a way to keep them cool (like a portable cooler).

Regularly Update Your Preparedness Plan

Preparedness isn’t one and done—it’s an ongoing process. Make sure to:

Review your emergency plan every six months.
Rotate food, water, and medical supplies before expiration.
Check your kit’s batteries, flashlight, and radio.
Conduct practice drills with your family to keep response times sharp.

Final Thoughts: Preparedness is Peace of Mind

Having a survival kit is crucial, but knowing what to do with it matters just as much. Disasters strike without warning, and your ability to act fast and stay calm could save your life.

With the right survival kit and a solid emergency plan in place, you will be prepared to handle anything. If you’re putting together a survival kit and preparedness plan, do check out our survival gear and other items here in our store. We offer a variety of tools that can help you when disaster strikes. From emergency first aid items to military surplus gear for when things really hit the fan, and everything in between.