The world is unpredictable, and accidents tend to happen when we least expect them. You may find yourself on edge reading or listening to the news and conjuring up all sorts of scenarios that could go wrong and change your life in an instant.
Don’t worry. While we can’t avoid every emergency, we can prepare ourselves to tackle just about anything life might throw at us. Emergency preparedness reduces anxiety and stress levels and leaves you feeling much more relaxed. One of the best ways to reduce anxiety about emergencies is to remove as many “what ifs” as possible from the equation. By following these four tips, you’ll be well-equipped to handle a crisis in the future and assist yourself or someone else.
Half a bottle of alcohol with unknown origins, some ibuprofen and a couple of leftover Band-Aids in your bathroom medicine cabinet is a reality for many of us but not a good way to be prepared for an emergency. Educate yourself on common household injuries such as burns, cuts and sprains. Then, buy a First Aid kit and keep it in a dry, easy-to-reach location.
You should also keep a First Aid kit in your car(s). You can even go the extra mile and keep one in both the kitchen and the bathroom. To some, it may seem a bit excessive, but always knowing there are medical supplies in-reach is a good feeling.
The Health app on iPhones has a feature called Medical ID that allows you to input important information for emergency responders like your blood type, allergies and medical conditions.
This app can be unlocked without a password, so even if you were unconscious or otherwise incapable of unlocking your device, EMTs or anyone helping you during a crisis could check for any important information.
If you own an Android, there is a free Medical ID app you can download from the Google Play Store. If you have serious medical conditions or allergies, it’s best to wear a medical ID bracelet.
You and your family members should also carry ICE (In Case of Emergency) cards on your persons at all times. You can get a free ICE card from geticecard.com.
Make sure that your phone and any backups are capable of receiving Wireless Emergency Alerts. These texts are issued by the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) via their Integrated Public Alert and Warning System (IPAWS). This system sends out alerts to people within range of cell towers in affected areas.
You don’t need to worry about missing a hurricane or flash flood warning if your phone can receive these, which means that you can go ahead and prepare for any events that may strike by buying some essential supplies.
Aside from non-perishable food, at least three days’ worth of water for every member of your household and medical supplies, a portable generator is a great investment for emergency preparedness. You can find a good emergency portable generator online or at stores like Walmart, Home Depot and Lowe’s.
Known commonly as a “Go Bag,” personal survival kits can fit in your closet and are great to have in the event of an emergency. Lifehacker has a walkthrough on how to pack the perfect “Go Bag” and ensure you’re ready to move quickly if you ever need to evacuate.
Supplies aside, emergency preparedness is also about your mindset. Learn about calming techniques such as deep breathing and grounding, so you can stay focused and act swiftly in the event of an emergency. Taking these steps will ensure that even when the most unexpected thing happens, you’ll be ready to face it.
Dixie Somers is a freelance writer and blogger for business, home, and family niches. Dixie lives in Phoenix, Arizona, and is the proud mother of three beautiful girls and wife to a wonderful husband.