5 Ways You Can Prepare for Emergencies This Summer

The summer heat can feel welcoming, but as heatwaves and rising temperatures become a daily occurrence, your risk of heat-related injuries increases. Stay prepared by following guidance from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) to protect yourself and others from the heat while outdoors: 

• Wear loose-fitting, lightweight clothing. 
• Limit time spent working or exercising. 
• Never leave anyone (including pets) in a parked car. 
• Find cool, shady spots to rest or stay indoors. 
• Drink plenty of fluids. 

Plan by following heat forecasts in your area. Be aware of symptoms for life-threatening, heat-related illnesses like heat stroke and heat exhaustion. 

Weather conditions can change fast and may produce thunderstorms and lightning, flooding, damaging hail and even tornadoes. Always be prepared for the possibility of bad weather by taking the following steps: 

• Get up-to-date alerts: Check daily forecasts, including before and during travels, and sign up for local and national warning systems. 
• Have a plan and supplies ready: Create a designated safety spot to meet and stock up on emergency supplies, like non-perishable foods, clean drinking water, a portable power bank, a battery-operated radio and a generator for backup power. 
• Stock up on medicine: Keep a first aid kit with medications that are specific to you and your loved ones' needs, including prescriptions.  

Severe weather can be unpredictable, but unexpected costs from injuries sustained during and after don’t need to be.  

Power outages, weather hazards, threats of fires or gas leaks – a lot can happen around your home. Take extra time to prepare before emergencies happen to respond with urgency: 

• Maintain a stash of goods: Your water supply should include one gallon per person per day for drinking and sanitation. Store nonperishable foods, like canned fruits and vegetables, dried beans and shelf-stable nondairy milk. Routinely replace expired items. 
• Have backup batteries: Keep cell phones and portable power banks charged. charged. Routinely check battery health at least once a month. Consider a battery-operated radio if you lose internet or cell connectivity. 
• Safely operate generators: Follow important tips like never operate a generator in an enclosed space, keeping it at least 20 feet from doors, windows and vents. 
• Designate a safety spot: Store supplies that fit the needs of you and your loved ones in a cool, dry space. 
• Install warning systems: Install smoke and carbon monoxide (CO) detectors in central areas and sleeping spaces, test them at least once a month and replace batteries twice a year. 

Small emergencies still require readiness. A well-stocked first aid kit lets you treat scrapes, cuts, burns and stings quickly, whether at home or in your car. You can buy a kit at most drugstores or customize your own with basic supplies and medications that fit your needs: 

• Adhesive tape, cloth or bandages 
• Antiseptic solution 
• Disposable gloves 
• Hand sanitizer 
• Antibiotic cream, hydrocortisone or burn gel 
• Aspirin or pain relievers (acetaminophen, ibuprofen) 

Keep a list of emergency contact numbers on hand, including local emergency services and Poison Control. Seek medical attention if health conditions worsen. 

From roadside accidents to unexpected hospital visits, emergencies don’t stop when you’re on vacation. Consider the following tips from the CDC to stay prepared for emergencies before, during and after travel: 

• Health safety: Check in with your doctor at least one month before you leave for your health status and any vaccinations and medications. Review your destination, including international travel, for specific health risks and safety concerns. 
• Important documentation: Share an itinerary, including contact information and any accommodations, with someone at home. Bring a list of emergency contacts, print and digital copies (if possible) of your passport, immunization records, prescriptions, insurance cards and more. 
• Travel health kit: Include needed or hard-to-find items at your destination, like earplugs, sunscreen or insect repellent. Pack medicines for pain, fever or motion sickness, and prescriptions, preferably in their original bottles.  
• Stay informed:Monitor travel warnings, safety, security, health and weather conditions through free services like Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP).