From our cozy homes in northeast Ohio, we think we are insulated from natural disasters like the California wildfires or hurricanes in the Atlantic. But what if heavy rains cause basement flooding? Or a tornado sweeps in during a storm front?

While no one should walk around with a doom and gloom mindset 24/7, it’s important to acknowledge that emergencies can happen and that we can take steps to get ready. National Preparedness Month, observed each September, is the perfect time for us all to pause, think and plan so that we can be prepared in case of disasters.

Read on for simple steps you can take to get organized:

• Involve everyone, even children, in your discussion and plans. This is a great opportunity to talk through fears. You can provide information and help kids feel confident when they see how ready your family is.

• Make an evacuation plan for your home and decide how you will communicate with each other if you are separated.

• We do fire and tornado drills at school and work. Why not at home? Consider running a mock emergency drill to “test” your plan and see if you need to change anything.

• Create an emergency supplies kit. Make sure you have enough food, water, medications and pet supplies to last at least three days. The Ready website has a list to help you build your kit.

• Do you know what your insurance covers in case of emergency? This handy worksheet will walk you through itemizing coverage for your homeowner, renters, property and auto insurance.

• Give yourself as much advanced notice as possible should disaster strike. Learn about the different types of emergency alerts that authorities issue and sign up to receive them.

• Remember to review your plan and emergency kit each year (such as next September during National Preparedness Month). Update phone numbers, check food and medication expiration dates, and replace items in your kit.

Adapted from:  www.ready.gov/september#info