1. Know your risks
Start by identifying the disasters most likely in your area — flooding, wildfire, hurricanes, tornadoes, earthquakes, or winter storms. Your local emergency management office publishes hazard maps. Preparing for the right threat matters more than preparing for every threat.
2. Sign up for alerts
- Enable Wireless Emergency Alerts on your phone
- Sign up for your local or county notification system
- Keep a battery or hand-crank radio for when networks fail
3. Build kits and supplies
Assemble a 72-hour go-bag for evacuation and a two-week home supply for sheltering in place. Cover water, food, first aid, light, power, and warmth. Keep a smaller kit in your vehicle.
4. Make a household plan
Decide how you'll communicate, where you'll meet, and how you'll evacuate. Assign roles for kids, pets, and relatives with special needs. Write it down and practice it.
5. Protect your home and documents
- Know how to shut off gas, water, and electricity
- Secure heavy furniture and water heaters in earthquake zones
- Keep insurance and identity documents in a waterproof, grab-and-go folder
- Photograph your belongings for insurance claims
Turn readiness into a number
It's hard to know when you're 'ready enough.' Prepit turns all five pillars into a single preparedness score tailored to your household and region, then hands you a prioritized roadmap to close the gaps.