Ready For Unsteady

Ready For Unsteady logo – emergency preparedness for everyday life
Ready For Unsteady logo – emergency preparedness for everyday life

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Single-Family Home Resilience

Emergency preparedness for single-family homes involves securing the essentials while taking advantage of available space for storage and equipment. Homeowners can install backup power systems, store larger quantities of water and supplies, and make structural improvements.

Download Full Checklist Here

Short-Term Preparation

  • Water: Store at least a gallon of water per person, per day for at least three days.
  • Food: Non-perishable items like canned goods, energy bars, and dried fruits. Aim for a three-day supply.
  • First Aid Kit: Include bandages, antiseptic, pain relievers, and any necessary medications.
  • Flashlights and Batteries: Multiple flashlights and extra batteries.
  • Battery-Powered Radio: For emergency alerts and news updates.
  • Essential Medications: A supply of any prescription medications you or your family needs.
  • Personal Hygiene Items: Toothbrushes, toothpaste, soap, and other essentials.
  • Important Documents: Copies of identification, insurance policies, birth certificates, and other vital documents.
  • Cash: Some cash for emergencies, as ATMs and card readers might not work.
  • Create an Emergency Plan: Identify situations with highest likelihood and determine how you will contact family and friends in case of a disaster.
  • Identify Safe Rooms: Choose a safe room in your home for each type of disaster (ex., basement for tornadoes, upstairs for floods).
  • Escape Routes: Have evacuation routes from each room of your home documented and practiced [download template here]
  • Garage Door: If you have a powered garage door, learn how to open it both from the inside and out in the event of a power outage.
  • Practice Your Plan: Regularly review and practice your disaster plan with your family.
  • Emergency Contacts: A list of emergency contacts, including family, friends, and neighbors. [download template here]
  • Tools: Basic tools like a wrench, pliers, and a can opener can be incredibly useful.
  • Blankets: For warmth in case of power outages or unexpected cold weather.
  • Emergency Supplies for Pets: Food, water, medications, and supplies for your pets.
  • Fire Blanket or Extinguisher: To combat small fires.
  • Emergency Lighting: Consider battery-powered lanterns or LED lights.
  • Sanitation Supplies: Disinfectant wipes, hand sanitizer, and garbage bags.
  • Physical maps: Keep physical maps on-hand in the event your GPS does not work. You can request free maps from state tourism sites – see the full list of state sites here.

Long-Term Preparation

  • Reinforce Entry Points: Install solid-core or metal doors, deadbolts, and security strike plates to deter break-ins.
  • Storm Shutters or Plywood Pre-Cuts: Protect windows from hurricanes, tornadoes, or civil unrest.
  • Fireproofing: Use fire-resistant materials for roofs (e.g., metal, clay tiles) and keep gutters clear of debris.
  • Earthquake Preparedness (if applicable): Secure heavy furniture, water heaters, and gas lines with straps.
  • Hidden Storage: False walls, floor compartments for valuables/supplies. 
  • Energy Independence: Invest in solar power systems with battery backup for sustained electricity. Consider portable generators with quiet operation for sensitive electronics.
  • Water Security: Explore rainwater harvesting systems, water filtration and purification equipment, and underground cisterns.
  • Communication: Establish a robust communication network including satellite phones, HAM radios, and shortwave receivers.
  • Food Storage: Rotate long-term food storage, ensuring variety and nutritional balance. Consider dehydrating or canning produce for extended shelf life.
  • Medical Stockpile: Expand first aid capabilities with advanced medical supplies, including suture kits and antibiotics.
  • Equipment Maintenance: Regularly service and maintain power tools, generators, and water purification systems.
  • Home Security: Enhance home security with surveillance systems, impact-resistant windows, and robust entry points.
  • Personal Protection: Consider self-defense training and equipment for personal safety.
  • Community Preparedness: Participate in neighborhood watch programs and disaster response training.
  • Emergency Funds: Maintain substantial emergency funds in accessible formats (cash, prepaid cards).
  • Insurance Review: Regularly assess insurance coverage for various disaster scenarios.
  • Alternative Income Sources: Explore potential income-generating activities for post-disaster recovery.
  • Stress Management: Incorporate stress management techniques into your routine.
  • Community Building: Foster strong community ties for mutual support.
  • Mental Health Resources: Have access to mental health professionals or support groups.