As Spring approaches, so does hurricane and wildfire seasons, along with an increased threat of tornadoes. It’s important to do everything you can not to leave disaster preparedness to chance. Although we can’t control when or where disasters happen, we can take the luck out of preparing for them!

Here are some ways you can leave the luck behind and prepare for disasters:

Know Your Risk
Being aware of the risks in the areas you live and work helps you to better prepare for disasters. If you know that your area is at risk of tornadoes, you know that you need to understand the dangers, when one might be coming and where to take shelter. For example, your plan may be different in the Southeast, where nighttime tornadoes are more common.

To make sure you’ll be notified about disasters and emergencies in your area, it’s a good idea to have several ways to receive emergency alerts.  Download the FEMA app to receive real-time alerts from the National Weather Service for up to five locations nationwide. Don’t forget to use the app to sign up for community alerts in your area.

Make a Plan
Knowing what to do during an emergency can help you respond faster and better when it matters most. Making a plan with your family can make a big difference in your response.

Be sure to keep the needs of every family member in mind when you’re making a plan, including the needs of your pets.

Build a Kit
You may need to evacuate quickly or shelter for long periods of time during a disaster. Having the supplies you need during these moments will mean you have less to worry about.

The kit you build should include items such as:

• Several days supply of food and water.
• Flashlight and batteries.
• First aid kit.
• A whistle to signal for help.
• Pet food and extra water for your pet.
• Necessary medications.
• Blankets.

Don’t leave preparing for disasters to chance! Visit Ready.gov for more tips on how to prepare for disasters.

Visit the It’s Not Luck! page to learn more about this annual springtime awareness campaign that reminds everyone not to rely on luck to prepare for disasters.