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Join AARP for just $15 for your first year when you sign up for automatic renewal. Gain instant access to exclusive products, hundreds of discounts and services, a free second membership, and a subscription to AARP The Magazine.

supplies for a disaster prep kit including bottles water first aid kit medications batteries a transistor radio and flashlight

How to Prepare for a Natural Disaster

En español | Earthquakes, floods, hurricanes, tornadoes and wildfires are all events that you can't control. But you can be prepared for problems before they happen. As of summer 2024 in the U.S. and its territories, the federal government listed 15 disasters this year that cost more than $1 billion. Here's a guide to help you take steps now to stay safe, limit damage and save money. Afterward, see our guide to Disaster Recovery

7 Ways You Can Help Protect Your Home and Belongings From Wildfires

New materials, landscaping help prevent spreading

emergency alert on a monitor screen that says destructive weather

Older Adults Need a Disaster Plan, FEMA Says. Most Don't Have One

Extreme weather can strike during any season

What Is a Digital Vault, and Do I Need One?

Store important documents securely in the cloud. Share as necessary

8 Essential Items for an Emergency To-Go Bag

What to keep in a prepacked disaster kit so you're prepared for any extreme weather event

Essential Technology for Natural Disasters

Free apps and affordable gadgets can help before and after extreme weather, so plan now

Adult woman sitting with her parents at the kitchen table discussing their plans in case of an emergency

How Caregivers Can Perpare for Natural Disasters

Decide on a strategy now before foul weather strikes

Women with two cats

Pet Safety Tips for Emergencies and Disasters

Food, medication and accommodations for animals should be part of any plan

Preparing People 50-Plus for Emergencies

Don’t forget important items that might not make the typical list

left a tornado approaching a suburban neighborhood right a man and dog falling through the ice

How to Stay Safe at Home or on the Road During Natural Disasters

These tips can help you stay out of harm's way

an illustration of a smartphone displaying an emergency alert superimposed over power lines

Learn the Ways to Find Wireless Emergency Alerts on Your Smartphone

The text-like cellphone messages sometimes disappear

an injured hiker holds a smartphone which says help on it

Your Smartphone Can Save Your Life. It Starts With Setting Up a Medical ID

Let first responders see health info, emergency contacts

buildings burn in maui as wildfires sweep across the island

Quiz: Are You Ready to Survive the Next Natural Disaster?

Floods, tornadoes, wildfires hit in unexpected places

portrait of refugees sitting on floor in shelter with blankets and overnight bags and one woman is using her mobile phone

Quiz: Are You Tech-Ready for an Emergency or Natural Disaster?

Your smartphone can help you stay informed, get aid

a national alet displays on a smartphone in front of the us capitol building's dome

Like Checklists? Use These Tips to Get Your Smartphone Ready to Help

Other prep tips can help you recover more easily later

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