September is National Preparedness Month, so it’s time to make sure your family and community are ready to act when a severe storm, flood, or fire occurs. Arkansas Restoration Services, Russellville’s top restoration company, believes that what people do during an emergency can impact how easily they recover in the aftermath. The team offers these tips to help you make the most of National Preparedness Month and keep your loved ones safe year-round.

Discuss Safety With Family & Friends

Weather-related emergencies like floods and tornadoes can happen quickly, so it’s crucial to be prepared before one of these events is in the forecast. Build an emergency kit with your family; it should contain at least three days’ worth of nonperishable food, bottled water, and medication, as well as important documents like identification, health records, and insurance paperwork. Consider developing an emergency savings plan, so you always have access to cash. Make a note of where the community’s shelters are located and share this information with neighbors, colleagues, and friends.

Find Out How You Can Help 

In an emergency, first responders save lives. While many people associate first response with professionals like police, firefighters, and medical rescuers, anyone can learn how to provide assistance. Knowing how to swim and perform basic first-aid tasks like dressing wounds and performing CPR empowers you to keep your family and neighbors safe until help arrives.

If you’re part of a business, faith-based organization, or school community, find out whether they have an emergency plan. The more prepared these entities are, the faster they can recover and assist others. In addition to providing support to individuals in need, these groups often help the community rebuild.

Practice Evacuating

Take part in public emergency drills or practice with your family, so everyone knows what to do when there is a disaster. Knowing where to find necessities like personal documents, medication, and other supplies will make evacuating easier.

Know What to Do in the Aftermath

Coming back to your home, business, or congregation after a disaster can be overwhelming. Even after the emergency has ended, the area might still be dangerous to people. Severe fire and water damage can cause structural problems as well as health hazards like mold. Find a restoration company you can count on to address the situation and make your home, workplace, or community center clean and safe once again. 

Emergencies and natural disasters can be stressful, but knowing how to prepare makes it easier to protect your loved ones and recover. Your restoration company will be with you every step of the way. After the incident, call Arkansas Restoration Services at (479) 967-2018 to schedule an evaluation of your home or business. Learn about the ways they repair storm and fire damage on their website.