Have home inspected to ensure compliance with fire and building codes.
Repair defective wiring and large cracks in plaster.
Obtain disaster insurance for home and personal property.
Obtain information on the National Flood Insurance Program from an insurance company or your local emergency management office.
Secure important papers, lists, and photographs of personal property, in a bank safety deposit box.
Buy ABC fire extinguishers, keep them accessible on each building level and periodically check functioning.
Install smoke detectors on each level outside sleeping areas, not in kitchens or bathrooms. Check functioning, and vacuum out dust and dirt once a month. Change batteries yearly.
Install carbon monoxide detector. Regularly maintain according to manufacturers instructions.
Buy flashlights/emergency lighting. Avoid using candles (fire hazard).
Make your house address/number clearly visible from the street.
Securely bolt/fasten your water heater.
Locate your home’s main water, electrical, and gas shut-offs, and learn how and when to shut them off. Mark with brightly colored stickers or tape.