National Preparedness Month: Know Your Risks

Published on September 04, 2023

Week One: Know Your Risks

As an older adult, you may have specific needs after a disaster. Use the following information to assess your needs and take simple, low-cost steps that help you get better prepared.

• Know what disasters could affect your area, which could call for an evacuation, and when to shelter in place, and plan for both.
• Keep a NOAA Weather Radio tuned to your local emergency station and monitor TV and radio for warnings about severe weather in your area.
• Download the FEMA app and get weather alerts from the National Weather Service for up to five different locations anywhere in the United States.
• If you live in a flood-prone area, find out if your home is in a flood zone. o Flood damage isn’t covered by standard homeowner’s insurance policies and just one inch of floodwater can cause more than $25,000 in damage.
• Everyone should consider flood insurance. Even if your home is in a low- or moderate-risk flood zone, purchasing flood insurance is a smart choice. More than 20 percent of flood insurance claims come from properties not in identified high-risk zones.
• Renters should purchase flood insurance contents policy. Flood damaged household goods are rarely salvageable.
• Talk to your insurance agent about flood coverage or visit www.floodsmart.gov. ALSO, KCK residents, learn more about our improved floodplain rating and savings on your flood insurance premiums.

About National Preparedness Month