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How to Prepare for a Natural Disaster

En español | Earthquakes, floods, hurricanes, tornadoes and wildfires are all events that you can't control. But you can be prepared for problems before they happen. As of summer 2024 in the U.S. and its territories, the federal government listed 15 disasters this year that cost more than $1 billion. Here's a guide to help you take steps now to stay safe, limit damage and save money. Afterward, see our guide to Disaster Recovery

In This Series: Preparing for Disasters

emergency alert on a monitor screen that says destructive weather

EMERGENCY STRATEGIES

Older adults need a disaster plan, FEMA says. Most don’t have one

Extreme weather can strike during any season

A man in a black hooded coat holds up his smartphone in front of a building destroyed by a storm

Personal Technology

Essential Technology to Have During Natural Disasters

Free apps, affordable gadgets can help in an emergency

EMERGENCY STRATEGIES

How Older Adults Should Prepare for Hurricanes, Other Emergencies

Don’t forget important items not on a typical list

EMERGENCY STRATEGIES

The New Go Bag: What You Need in Your Emergency Escape Kit

Masks and hand sanitizer, along with food, batteries and medications are essential to have on hand

Women with two cats

EMERGENCY STRATEGIES

Pet Essentials and Preparedness for an Emergency or Disaster

Food, medication, lodging should be part of any plan

Adult woman sitting with her parents at the kitchen table discussing their plans in case of an emergency

CAREGIVING

How to Create Disaster Preparedness, Emergency Plans for Loved Ones

Decide on a strategy now — before foul weather strikes

houses in front of a fire happening in florida

Home & Living

7 Ways to Protect Your Home from Wildfires Before They Happen

New materials, landscaping can prevent spreading

left a tornado approaching a suburban neighborhood right a man and dog falling through the ice

Home & Living

How to Stay Safe at Home or on the Road During Natural Disasters

These tips can help you stay out of harm’s way

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Personal Technology

Find Out How Your Smartphone Can Help Save Your Life

Let first responders see health info, emergency contacts

an illustration of a smartphone displaying an emergency alert superimposed over power lines

Personal Technology

How to Find Wireless Emergency Alerts on Your Smartphone

Text-like cellphone messages add to TV, outside sirens

buildings burn in maui as wildfires sweep across the island

Personal Technology

Quiz: Are You Ready to Survive a Natural Disaster?

Your smartphone can help you stay informed, get aid

portrait of refugees sitting on floor in shelter with blankets and overnight bags and one woman is using her mobile phone

SENIOR PLANET

Quiz: Are You Tech-Ready for an Emergency or Natural Disaster?

Your smartphone can help you stay informed, get aid

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SENIOR PLANET

Like Checklists? Use These Tips to Get Your Smartphone Ready to Help

Other prep tips can help you recover more easily later

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$12 for your first year when you sign up for Automatic Renewal

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