How to Prepare for New Climate-Related Emergencies

Climate change is making extreme weather events more frequent and severe, increasing climate-related emergencies that threaten lives, property, and ecosystems.

For example, according to the UNFCC, natural disasters fuelled by climate change have increased five-fold over the last 50 years, with an average of one severe natural event happening daily, resulting in $202 million in losses and 115 deaths per day.

The effects of climate change are already much more severe than scientists had originally anticipated and are expected to continue worsening in severity and frequency over the next few years.

In this article, you’ll learn what climate-related emergencies are, examples of common climate-related disasters, and how to prepare your home and family to stay safe during these events. Keep reading to find out how to prepare for new climate-related emergencies. This is your guide to climate emergency preparedness.

Key Takeaways

• Climate-related emergencies are increasing in frequency and severity due to climate change.
• Common climate emergencies include floods, wildfires, severe storms, and heatwaves.
• Fortifying your home with flood barriers, storm shutters, and fire-resistant materials can increase safety.
• A well-prepared emergency kit with essentials for 72 hours is critical for any weather-related disaster.
• Having a family emergency plan with clear communication and evacuation routes ensures everyone’s safety.
• Supporting community resilience through volunteering, advocacy, and education strengthens local responses to climate challenges.

What Are Climate-Related Emergencies?

Climate-related emergencies are extreme weather events and natural disasters exacerbated by climate change. They can cause significant damage to infrastructure, disrupt essential services, and pose serious risks to public health and safety.

The frequency and intensity of these emergencies are expected to increase as the earth’s climate continues to warm due to human activities that release greenhouse gasses. Figures from the World Bank show that climate-related disasters cost the global economy roughly $200 billion per year, with losses expected to increase sharply in the coming years.

On a global scale, in 2023, the Internal Displacement Monitoring Centre recorded that 24.9 million people were displaced globally due to climate-related disasters, marking climate change as a major factor in internal displacement worldwide.

Projections indicate that this figure could rise dramatically, with as many as 1.2 billion people potentially facing displacement by 2050 as climate impacts intensify. This means that communities worldwide will need to adapt and become more resilient to the impacts of climate change.

Unfortunately, those most often impacted are those in low-income communities. According to the Environmental Defense Fund, low-income communities suffer from a 25% longer recovery time from natural disasters due to a lack of preparation and resources.

Studies performed by FEMA show that as many as 32% of Americans, particularly renters, cannot save finances or resources for emergencies, thus negatively impacting their ability to respond when a disaster strikes.

Furthermore, only 40% of Americans feel that they are adequately prepared for emergencies, thus illustrating how the majority of people are unprepared for climate-related emergencies and severe weather events.

Examples of Climate-Related Emergencies

As the effects of climate change become more pronounced, different types of climate disasters are occurring more frequently and with greater intensity, including floods, wildfires, heatwaves, droughts, severe storms, and sea level rise.

Below is an overview of some of the primary types of severe weather events that people must be increasingly prepared for.

Floods

Flood risks are becoming more common with rising sea levels and an increase in heavy rainfall. Flooding can devastate homes, businesses, and essential infrastructure while also posing threats from drowning and waterborne diseases.

To illustrate the worsening severity of these events, figures show that since 1980, the United States has experienced 44 flood disasters, each resulting in damages exceeding a billion dollars. Approximately half of these billion-dollar floods occurred between 2010 and 2019. Most shockingly, there have been ten such events over the last five years.

FEMA estimates that only 4% of homeowners in the USA have flood insurance, even though 99% of communities have been affected by floods.

Moreover, only 15% of those living in high-risk areas have flood insurance, while 40% of flood insurance claims come from outside high-risk areas. This shows how even those areas of the country that were previously seen as low-risk for flooding are now being increasingly impacted.

Wildfires

Prolonged droughts and higher temperatures contribute to ideal wildfire conditions, which can spread rapidly. These fires destroy homes and natural habitats and produce harmful smoke and air pollution, endangering lives.

Instances of wildfires in the USA are on the rise, with the number jumping from 58,100 in 2018 to 69,000 in 2022. The number is expected to increase as heat waves and droughts worsen, two other natural disasters that we’ll examine below.

According to Gallagher, over 1,200 residences were destroyed by wildfires in 2022, and economic losses exceeded $3 billion.

These economic losses were felt hardest by communities without wildfire preparations, with just 29% of high-risk households having implemented adequate preparations. With climate change worsening, wildfires are expected to take a greater toll on communities in the USA.

Heatwaves

Climate change is driving more frequent, intense, and prolonged heatwaves. Extreme heat can lead to heat exhaustion, heatstroke, and even death, especially among vulnerable groups like the elderly and those with existing health conditions.

Figures from the Environmental Protection Agency show that heat waves are increasing in severity and frequency, climbing from two per year in the 1908s to over six per year in the 2020s.

The temperatures during the heat waves have also increased steadily over those years.

Due to these events, over 2,300 people in the United States died during heat waves in the summer of 2023. The number of heat-related deaths grew by 95% from 2010 to 2022.

Droughts

Droughts are becoming more common and severe globally as temperatures rise and rainfall patterns shift. The impact includes water shortages, crop failures, and an increased risk of wildfires. Based on the Palmer Drought Index, as of September 2024, roughly 10% of the contiguous US was affected by extreme drought.

Severe Storms

Climate change amplifies storm intensity, resulting in stronger winds, heavier rainfall, and frequent lightning strikes. These storms can damage buildings, disrupt transportation and power systems, and threaten life and safety.

According to CISA, 186 severe storms have been recorded in the USA since 1980, with over half of them occurring in just the last five years alone. This illustrates how quickly the climate situation is worsening. 2023 saw record financial losses due to severe storms in the USA, totalling upwards of $70 billion, a stark increase from the roughly $40 billion lost in 2022.

Recent figures show that the loss of life is one of the biggest issues in terms of severe storms, with each tropical cyclone that hits the USA indirectly causing up to 11,000 excess deaths and over 88,000 excess deaths per year.

Rising Sea Levels

As global temperatures increase, melting ice sheets and glaciers raise sea levels, leading to coastal flooding, erosion, and saltwater intrusion into freshwater sources. This poses a serious risk to the homes and livelihoods of millions living in coastal regions.

Climate.gov indicates that sea levels have risen by as much as 9” since 1880, with 2023 setting a new record of 3.99” above 1993 levels, the highest since scientists began recording sea levels with satellites in 1993.

Emergency Preparedness and Infrastructure Resilience in the USA

The United States faces significant challenges with its infrastructure due to the increasing threats posed by climate-related disasters. A report from the American Society of Civil Engineers in 2022 revealed that about 25% of the country’s infrastructure, including roads, bridges, and energy systems, is highly vulnerable to hazards like flooding and wildfires.

This means that essential services and connectivity are at considerable risk, potentially leading to widespread disruptions and economic losses when disasters strike.

A 2021 study by the National Institute of Building Sciences found that for every dollar invested in making infrastructure more resilient, there is an average savings of six dollars in disaster recovery costs.

This impressive return on investment highlights the cost-effectiveness of proactive measures. Adopting and implementing resilient building codes nationwide will save approximately $4.5 billion annually.

How Can You Prepare Your Home for Climate-Related Emergencies?

Preparing your home for climate-related emergencies is essential today, where extreme weather events are becoming more frequent and severe. A well-prepared home can reduce damage, ensure safety, and increase resilience during natural disasters.

Below are important strategies for fortifying your home and household against various climate disasters, including floods, wildfires, severe storms, power outages, and extreme temperature events.

Reinforcing Roofs and Windows for Storms

Strong roofs and windows are vital defenses against powerful winds, heavy rainfall, and flying debris in severe storms. Here’s how to prepare your home for these storm-related threats:

Roof Reinforcement for Storms

Reinforcing your roof can significantly reduce damage in strong winds or storms. Using durable materials like metal can make your roof more resilient against heavy weather. If metal is not an option, you can add supports and tie-downs to your existing roof structure.

It’s also wise to seal any cracks and secure shingles or tiles to prevent water from seeping in during storms. Regularly inspect your roof for signs of wear, damage, or loose materials, addressing any issues before they worsen.

Installing Storm Shutters and Impact-Resistant Windows

Storm shutters can shield your windows from high winds and flying debris, protecting both the glass and the people inside. Impact-resistant windows are another option.

These are specially designed to withstand strong impacts and are ideal for hurricane-prone areas. These windows reduce the likelihood of shattering, which can prevent injuries from broken glass and help keep wind and water from entering your home during a storm.

Regular Roof and Window Maintenance

Maintaining your roof and windows is a preventive measure that can help them withstand severe weather. Conduct regular inspections and promptly fix any damage, as even minor cracks can expand under pressure from wind or rain. Clear away debris that may collect in gutters, as this can block drainage, leading to water damage.

Flood Protection Measures

Flooding is a growing risk in many regions, and flood-proofing your home can help you manage potential damage and water intrusion. The following methods can be used to flood-proof your home:

Installing Flood Barriers

Flood barriers, like sandbags, water-activated barriers, or permanent flood walls, are effective ways to direct water away from your home. These barriers can be placed around entry points, such as doors, garage entries, and windows. Investing in modern flood barriers that can be quickly activated can provide an extra layer of defense, especially if you live in a high-risk area.

Elevating Electrical Systems and Appliances

Elevating electrical systems and appliances above potential flood levels is an essential step in flood-proofing. Elevate outlets, switches, circuit breakers, and appliances to reduce the risk of water damage. Placing furniture on risers or moving valuable items to higher floors can also help minimize losses in a flood.

Waterproofing Walls and Floors

Applying waterproof sealants to walls and floors in basements or ground-level rooms can create an additional barrier against water intrusion. Focus on sealing gaps around doors and windows to prevent leaks, and inspect your basement or crawl spaces for any signs of dampness or cracks, reinforcing these areas as needed.

Wildfire Protection

For those in wildfire-prone areas, taking steps to fireproof the home can be lifesaving, which includes creating a defensible space and using fire-resistant building materials. Here’s how to protect your home against a wildfire:

Creating a Defensible Space

Creating a defensible space around your home can help prevent wildfires from spreading. Clear away flammable vegetation within a 30-foot radius, keep grass trimmed, and remove dry or dead plants. Store firewood and other combustible materials far from your home, and maintain an open area around your property free of excess foliage.

Using Fire-Resistant Building Materials

When building or renovating your home, choose fire-resistant materials such as brick, metal, or concrete. These materials can prevent or slow fire from spreading. Consider fire-resistant siding and roofing materials, and ensure that decks, patios, and fences are constructed from fire-resistant materials if possible.

Keeping Gutters and Roof Clear

Leaves, twigs, and other debris in gutters and on the roof can ignite from embers during a wildfire. Clean your roof and gutters regularly, particularly during dry seasons, to reduce the chance of ignition. Installing ember-resistant vents can help prevent embers from entering the home through ventilation systems.

Backup Power Solutions for Any Situation

Power outages are common during climate emergencies, and having a reliable backup power source can make all the difference. By using portable and solar generators, you can ensure that you always have power on hand. Here’s how to make sure you never run out of power:

Installing Solar Generators and Backup Batteries

Solar-powered generators and backup batteries can provide clean, renewable energy during power outages.

These systems can run essential appliances like refrigerators, lights, and communication devices, ensuring you remain connected and have access to necessary resources. Consider investing in a battery system to store enough energy for prolonged outages.

Portable Generator Options

A portable generator is a viable alternative for those who cannot install a solar generator. Ensure it is stored safely and follow all operating instructions to prevent hazards like carbon monoxide buildup.

Conserving Energy During Power Outages

Conserving energy is crucial during prolonged outages. Prioritize essential devices, avoid using high-energy appliances, and consider energy-saving habits like turning off lights when not in use. Developing a conservation plan can help extend your power supply until regular service is restored.

Improving Insulation and Ventilation

Extreme temperatures during heatwaves and cold snaps can impact your home’s indoor environment and overall comfort. To protect yourself from the effects of extreme temperatures, particularly heatwaves, it is important to use proper insulation, energy-efficient windows and doors, and smoke detectors.

Here’s how to keep your house cool during those heatwaves:

Upgrading Insulation

Improving insulation is one of the best ways to manage your home’s temperature. Enhanced insulation can help keep your home cooler during heatwaves and warmer during cold spells, making it easier to maintain comfortable conditions without over-relying on energy-intensive systems. Consider insulating walls, attics, and basements to maximize efficiency.

Installing Energy-Efficient Windows and Doors

Energy-efficient windows and doors can reduce heat transfer, keeping your home stable environment in extreme temperatures. Double-glazed windows, weatherstripping, and insulated doors can reduce heat loss or gain, reducing energy consumption and improving indoor comfort.

Using Smoke and Carbon Monoxide Detectors

Smoke and carbon monoxide detectors are vital safety features, especially during disasters where ventilation may be impacted. Ensure these detectors are installed throughout your home, particularly near sleeping areas, and regularly check that they are functioning. Replace batteries as needed to maintain safety at all times.

Staying Informed and Developing an Emergency Plan

Being prepared and aware is vital for protecting your household during climate-related disasters. Sign up for local emergency alerts to stay informed about potential threats, and create a clear evacuation plan with your family, identifying safe routes and shelters.

We’ll discuss creating an emergency plan in more detail below, but before we do that, you need to have a climate emergency kit on hand. Let’s discuss how to put one together so you can be prepared for any weather-related disasters.

What Should You Include in a Climate Emergency Kit?

A well-stocked emergency kit is key to staying safe and comfortable during weather-related disasters. Your kit should include enough supplies to sustain you and your family for at least 72 hours and be easily accessible in case you need to evacuate quickly. It should include a variety of essential supplies, communication tools, and climate-specific gear.

Here’s how to put together a climate emergency kit for extreme weather preparation:

Essential Supplies

Your climate emergency kit should have core supplies that cover basic needs like hydration, nutrition, health, and lighting to help you endure extreme situations.

Water and Food Supplies

Stock a minimum three-day supply of clean drinking water (one gallon per person per day) to stay hydrated. Additionally, choose non-perishable, ready-to-eat foods like canned meals, granola bars, and dried fruits.

A manual can opener, disposable utensils, plates, and cups are also essential for convenient meal preparation. Emergency food kits like this Nutrient Survival 14-day kit can keep you and your family going when resources are scarce.

Comprehensive First Aid Kit

A first aid kit should contain bandages, antiseptics, pain relievers, and any prescription medications needed by household members.

Include items for wound care, such as gauze and adhesive tape, as well as treatments for common injuries, like burn ointments, tweezers, and medical scissors. Don’t forget essential hygiene products like toothpaste, hand sanitizer, soap, and feminine products for personal care.

Lighting Equipment

Since power outages are common in extreme weather, pack multiple light sources. Flashlights, lanterns, and headlamps with extra batteries are essential.

Consider solar-powered or hand-crank lights, which don’t rely on replaceable batteries and can be used indefinitely with proper maintenance. Glow sticks are also helpful as they provide low-level light and can last several hours.

Shelter and Warmth

Prepare blankets, sleeping bags, and emergency thermal blankets to stay warm if heating becomes unavailable. Pack a sturdy tarp and duct tape to create a temporary shelter. In cold climates, consider adding hand warmers and extra layers of clothing, including hats and gloves, to prevent hypothermia.

Communication and Information Tools

Staying informed and connected during a crisis is crucial, especially if standard communication channels are disrupted. To help you stay connected, an emergency radio and power banks are some of your first lines of defense.

Emergency Radio

A battery-powered or hand-crank emergency radio lets you receive local emergency broadcasts, weather updates, and important announcements. Many models also include built-in flashlights and phone chargers, making them versatile additions to your kit. Ensure you have spare batteries or a solar charger to keep the radio powered.

Cell Phone and Power Banks

Keep your cell phone charged and ready, as it may be your primary way to reach emergency contacts. Include at least one backup power bank or portable charger to extend your device’s battery life. Solar-powered power banks can be particularly useful if electricity is unavailable for extended periods.

Important Documents and Emergency Contacts

Place essential documents in a waterproof and fireproof container to protect them from damage. Include identification, insurance policies, medical records, emergency contacts, and evacuation routes or maps. Make digital copies of these documents and store them on a USB drive for easy access if paper documents are lost.

Whistle and Signal Devices

A whistle or emergency signal device can help you attract attention if you need assistance. A whistle can alert rescuers to your location in loud environments or if trapped in a structure, potentially saving lives

Climate-Specific Gear

Depending on your region’s particular risks, such as wildfires, floods, or heatwaves, you may need additional gear tailored to these conditions. Here are some of the most important pieces of gear you’ll need based on the emergency at hand:

Wildfire Safety Equipment

For areas prone to wildfires, pack N95 or P100 masks to filter out smoke and harmful particles. Consider goggles to protect your eyes from smoke and ash. Fire-resistant blankets and extinguishers rated for multiple types of fires (A, B, and C classes) are also recommended.

Heatwave Readiness

In regions susceptible to heatwaves, prepare cooling towels, portable battery-powered fans, and a supply of electrolyte supplements to prevent heat-related illnesses. Include extra water for hydration, and apply sunscreen if you expect prolonged exposure to the sun.

Flood Preparedness

If you live in a flood-prone area, stock sandbags to divert water away from your home, as well as a portable sump pump for water removal. Waterproof rain gear, sturdy boots, and waterproof containers for electronics and valuables can help you navigate safely. Life jackets or inflatable safety vests are wise additions, especially if you live near water or in areas prone to flash flooding.

With your emergency kit ready to go, let’s move on and cover some family disaster planning tips.

How Can You Create a Family Emergency Plan?

Developing a comprehensive family emergency plan is a vital step in preparing for climate-related disasters. A well-crafted plan ensures that every family member knows what to do and where to go in case of an emergency, minimizing confusion and stress during a crisis.

Your plan should include communication strategies, planning evacuation routes, and practicing emergency drills. Here are the most important climate change safety tips for family disaster planning:

Establish Communication Strategies

Effective communication keeps your family informed and connected during a disaster. Preparing in advance can ensure everyone knows how to reach each other if regular communication channels fail. This can be done by designating an out-of-area contact, setting up a family communication group, and teaching family members to use emergency communication tools.

Here’s how to stay in touch during and after weather-related disasters:

Designate an Out-of-Area Contact

Choose a friend or relative living outside your immediate area as a central point of contact. In a large-scale emergency, local networks may be congested or down, making communicating with someone in a different region easier. Family members can report their safety status to this person, who can relay information to others.

Set Up a Family Communication Group

Create a group text thread or social media chat specifically for emergency use. Ensure every family member knows how to access it and has saved the necessary contacts.

Discuss emergency texting procedures, such as short, clear messages and using emojis or keywords to indicate safety status. Encourage family members to periodically check their devices and back up important contact information in case of device failure.

Teach Family Members to Use Emergency Communication Tools

Not all family members may be familiar with certain communication apps or devices. Take time to teach everyone, especially children and elderly relatives, how to use tools like messaging apps, GPS location sharing, and emergency alert systems. Print a list of essential contacts and instructions for use as a backup.

Plan Evacuation Routes and Meeting Points

Identifying safe escape routes and predetermined meeting locations can ensure your family stays together and knows where to go in an emergency. Here’s how everyone can get to safety even if they get separated from one another:

Map Multiple Evacuation Routes

Identify several safe evacuation routes from your home and neighborhood, considering potential hazards like blocked roads or flood-prone areas. Check local maps to ensure these routes are clear and accessible. Make sure everyone is familiar with these routes, keeping physical maps on hand in case GPS fails.

Choose a Primary and Secondary Meeting Point

Designate a primary meeting location near your home, such as a park or school, where family members can reunite if separated. Select a secondary location farther away, like a community center, in case your immediate area is unsafe. Review and practice these routes periodically so everyone knows how to reach these meeting points.

Keep Physical Directions and Maps

In case of power or device failures, print out directions and maps of your evacuation routes and meeting points. Store them in a central place in your home and in each family member’s emergency kit. Make sure everyone knows where these documents are stored.

Practice Emergency Drills

Regularly conducting drills helps ensure your family is familiar with the emergency plan, increasing confidence and preparedness in real scenarios. Here’s what you need to know about creating and practicing emergency drills.

Conduct Routine Fire, Earthquake, and Evacuation Drills

At least twice a year, practice fire, earthquake, and evacuation drills. Simulate real conditions as much as possible to familiarize yourself with procedures. For instance, practice evacuating in low visibility conditions (e.g., with lights off to simulate a power outage) and discuss how to act if communication is temporarily disrupted.

Review and Update the Plan

After each drill, discuss what went well and identify any areas for improvement. Update the plan as needed, taking into account any changes in family members’ health, mobility, or residence location. Ensuring that everyone has an updated version of the plan can help improve effectiveness and confidence.

Assign Roles and Responsibilities

Involving each family member in the emergency plan reinforces teamwork and accountability. Assign tasks based on each person’s abilities.

Older children can gather emergency supplies, adults can manage communication, and teenagers can assist with pets or young children. Review and adjust roles periodically to ensure everyone is prepared to carry out their responsibilities.

Familiarize with Emergency Supplies and Basic First Aid

Knowing how to use emergency supplies and perform basic first aid can be lifesaving in a disaster. By knowing how to identify and use emergency supplies, as well as knowing basic first aid, you can help keep those around you safe.

Here’s what you need to know about first aid and disasters:

Identify and Use Emergency Kit Supplies

Ensure every family member knows where the emergency kit is stored and understands how to use its contents. Teach children and elderly family members to locate essentials like water, food, flashlights, and radios. Review the items in the kit periodically to ensure they are in working condition and replace expired items.

Teach Basic First Aid and CPR

Equip family members with basic first aid skills, including how to treat cuts, burns, and fractures. Enroll adults and older children in a CPR course if possible, as this can be critical in a medical emergency. Regularly review these skills to maintain confidence and preparedness.

Preparing for Special Needs and Pet Safety

Certain family members, like those with medical needs or pets, may require additional planning. Here’s how to make sure that everyone, including your beloved pets, makes it out in one piece:

Address Medical and Mobility Needs

If a family member has specific medical needs, include extra medication and necessary medical supplies in the emergency kit. If mobility is an issue, plan how you will assist this family member during evacuation, and practice these steps in drills.

Plan for Pet Safety

Include pets in your evacuation and emergency plans. Prepare a pet-specific kit containing food, water, a leash or carrier, and medications. Ensure your pet is comfortable with its carrier, which can reduce stress in an emergency.

What Are the Best Resources for Staying Informed During Climate Emergencies?

Staying informed during a climate emergency is crucial for making timely and safe decisions. Numerous reliable resources can help you keep up with current weather conditions, evacuation orders, and safety recommendations.

Below are key types of resources to monitor, including local government alerts, trusted weather sources, and emergency preparation guides, to help you stay prepared and informed.

Local Government and Emergency Management Agencies

Your local government and emergency management agencies are essential sources for accurate, timely information during climate emergencies. They offer various ways to stay updated and access critical safety information.

Signing Up for Local Emergency Alerts

Most cities or counties have notification systems to alert residents of potential hazards and provide evacuation orders or safety instructions. You can sign up for alerts via text messages, emails, or phone calls, ensuring you receive essential updates immediately. Check your local government’s website to enroll in these notifications, often referred to as “reverse 911” systems.

Following Local Agencies on Social Media

Many emergency management offices, police departments, and fire departments actively post real-time updates on social media platforms. By following these agencies on social channels like Twitter or Facebook, you can get quick access to evacuation instructions, road closures, and shelter information. It’s also useful to enable notifications for these accounts to receive updates as they happen.

Reliable Weather and News Sources

Weather and news organizations provide crucial information on climate conditions, potential hazards, and ongoing safety recommendations. National and local services are also reliable sources.

National Weather Service (NWS)

The National Weather Service (NWS) is a trusted resource for real-time weather forecasts, advisories, and warnings. Their website and social media channels provide in-depth details on storm tracks, weather patterns, and anticipated impacts.

They also issue alert categories (such as watches, warnings, and advisories) to inform the public of the severity and immediacy of weather events, helping you gauge your level of response.

Local News Stations and Weather Teams

Local news stations often have dedicated weather teams that work closely with emergency management agencies to broadcast critical information.

During emergencies, these news teams offer localized coverage, including up-to-the-minute reports on weather conditions, evacuation orders, road hazards, and nearby shelters. Many stations also provide live updates online or via apps, making them accessible even if you are away from a TV.

Emergency Preparation Guides and Expert Recommendations

Practical guides and expert resources can offer valuable advice on preparing for and responding to various climate emergencies. Here are some of the best resources at your disposal to prepare for an emergency:

Emergency Preparation Guides

These guides provide step-by-step instructions on what to do before, during, and after natural disasters.

Topics include creating a family emergency plan, assembling a climate-specific emergency kit, and preparing your home to withstand hazards like flooding, wind, or fire.

FEMA, the Red Cross, and local emergency agencies often publish free, downloadable guides that are easy to access and share.

Product Recommendations for Resilience

Certain tools and supplies can significantly improve your safety and comfort during climate emergencies.

Websites like Ready.gov and FEMA provide lists of recommended items for various disasters, and many community preparedness organizations share information on reliable equipment suited for extended outages or supply chain disruptions.

Staying Regularly Informed and Prepared

Bookmarking and regularly checking these resources can help you stay prepared for sudden climate emergencies. Reviewing your family’s emergency plan and keeping supplies updated will further enhance your resilience.

Staying connected to these reliable information sources and expert guides empowers you to face unexpected challenges with confidence and readiness.

Staying informed is key to making smart decisions and staying safe during climate emergencies. Fortunately, there are several reliable resources available to help you stay up-to-date on the latest weather conditions, evacuation orders, and safety guidelines.

How Can You Support Community Resilience Efforts?

Building resilience against climate-related emergencies extends beyond individual preparations. Supporting community resilience contributes to a stronger, more adaptable society that is better equipped to handle the challenges of a changing climate.

By volunteering at disaster response organizations, advocating for climate policies, and organizing the community, you can ensure that your friends and family are well-protected.

Here are several ways to actively strengthen your community’s resilience.

Volunteering with Local Disaster Response Organizations

Engaging in local disaster response efforts provides direct support to those in need and builds essential networks within the community. Here’s how to get involved with your community.

Assisting Local Emergency Response Teams

Volunteer with local organizations like the Red Cross, fire departments, or community emergency response teams (CERTs).

These teams often need help setting up shelters, distributing supplies, and supporting affected residents during emergencies.

Supporting Vulnerable Neighbors

Many community members, including the elderly, disabled, or those with limited resources, may need additional help preparing for emergencies.

Assist neighbors by helping them create emergency kits, develop evacuation plans, or secure their homes against severe weather. Building these connections strengthens community bonds and ensures that vulnerable individuals are not left behind during a crisis.

Advocating for Climate Adaptation Policies

Advocating for policies that promote climate adaptation and resilience is a powerful way to support long-term community stability. Here are several ways that you can assist on this front:

Supporting Infrastructure Improvements

Attend city council meetings or town halls to advocate for critical infrastructure upgrades that enhance community resilience.

Encourage investments in reinforcing bridges, upgrading stormwater management systems, and installing flood barriers to reduce flood risks. By voicing support, you contribute to shaping policies that prioritize the safety and adaptability of your community.

Promoting Renewable Energy and Energy Efficiency

Advocate for the adoption of renewable energy sources and energy-efficient building codes within your community. Supporting solar, wind, and other clean energy sources reduces reliance on vulnerable power grids, while energy-efficient practices can minimize the impact of power disruptions.

Participating in Community Planning for Emergency Preparedness

Community involvement in emergency planning ensures that local preparedness measures are inclusive and effective. By attending regular meetings and collaborating with your community, you can ensure that you are all prepared as one.

Here are some ways to participate in your community when preparing for floods, heatwaves, and everything in between.

Attending Emergency Preparedness Meetings

Attend meetings focused on emergency preparedness and provide input on resilience strategies that address your community’s unique vulnerabilities.

These forums are opportunities to influence plans that may include evacuation routes, shelter availability, and resource allocation.

Collaborating on Local Resilience Strategies

Work with local leaders and planners to develop comprehensive strategies that address potential risks like floods, wildfires, or severe storms.

Propose initiatives such as creating additional shelter locations or setting up a community alert system. Collective input helps create a plan that is more robust and better suited to the community’s specific needs.

For example, the EU civil protection mechanism, created in 2001 to offer emergency support, was activated 31 times in 2024, breaking the prior record of 23 activations in 2023. This year saw an unprecedented 19 responses to wildfires, the most recorded since 2007.

Organizing or Joining Community Education Events

Raising awareness and educating others about emergency preparedness builds a culture of resilience and self-reliance.

Hosting Preparedness Workshops

Organize workshops on essential topics like assembling emergency kits, developing family communication plans, and climate-proofing homes.

Partner with local schools, libraries, or community centers to reach a broader audience, emphasizing practical steps everyone can take to protect themselves and their families. These workshops foster a sense of shared responsibility and encourage proactive action.

Promoting Awareness Campaigns

Join or launch awareness campaigns that emphasize the importance of emergency preparedness.

This can include social media initiatives, educational flyers, or community presentations. Raising awareness motivates others to get involved and prepare for climate-related emergencies, creating a more informed and prepared community.

Supporting Local Food Systems and Community Gardens

Strengthening local food systems can make communities more resilient to disruptions caused by climate-related emergencies. By participating in CSA programs and community gardens, you can help those around you who may be disproportionately affected by food insecurity during natural disasters.

Here’s how to support local food systems:

Participating in Community-Supported Agriculture (CSA) Programs

Join a CSA program to support local farmers and reduce dependence on long-distance food transportation, which can be impacted by extreme weather. By purchasing shares in local agriculture, you contribute to the economic stability of farmers and ensure access to fresh produce.

Engaging in Community Gardens

Community gardens are valuable resources for food security and community engagement. Contribute time to planting, maintaining, and harvesting local crops, or start a garden in your neighborhood if one doesn’t already exist. These gardens provide access to fresh, affordable produce and help reduce reliance on supply chains vulnerable to climate disruptions.

Actively Engaging in Community Resilience Efforts

Building a resilient community requires active participation from residents. Whether through volunteering, advocating, planning, or educating, your contributions help create a community better prepared to handle climate-related challenges.

By supporting community resilience efforts, you’re investing in a stronger, more adaptable society that can withstand and recover from climate emergencies.

The Bottom Line on Climate Emergency Preparedness

Preparing for climate-related emergencies is no longer optional; it’s essential. As climate change intensifies, the frequency and impact of natural disasters like floods, wildfires, and storms are increasing, and being prepared can mean the difference between safety and loss.

From reinforcing your home against extreme weather to creating an emergency kit and family plan, these steps ensure you and your loved ones are ready to respond effectively. Additionally, engaging with community resilience efforts not only strengthens local support networks but also helps protect vulnerable populations.

By actively preparing for floods and heatwaves, as well as other natural disasters, staying informed, and encouraging community involvement, you can contribute to a more resilient future, equipped to handle the unpredictable challenges of a changing climate.

Remember that Batten Safe has you covered for all of your climate emergency preparedness needs.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Are the Most Common Climate-Related Emergencies to Prepare For?

Common climate-related emergencies include floods, wildfires, heatwaves, severe storms, and rising sea levels. Each of these events has become more frequent and intense due to climate change, making preparation essential.

How Can I Improve My Home’s Resilience to Extreme Weather?

You can enhance your home’s resilience by reinforcing the roof, installing storm shutters or impact-resistant windows, using fire-resistant materials, and applying waterproof sealants in vulnerable areas to protect against storms, wildfires, and floods.

What Should I Prioritize in My Climate Emergency Kit?

Ensure you have a three-day supply of water and food, a comprehensive first-aid kit, multiple light sources, communication tools, and essential documents. Tailor your kit to specific risks in your area, such as N95 masks for wildfire-prone areas or cooling towels for heatwave regions.

How Can I Help My Community Become More Resilient to Climate Emergencies?

Volunteering with local emergency response teams, advocating for resilience-focused policies, and organizing preparedness workshops are ways to strengthen community resilience. Supporting vulnerable neighbors and participating in community planning also contribute to a safer community.

Why Is a Family Emergency Plan Important?

A family emergency plan ensures that each member knows what to do and where to go during a crisis. This includes designated meeting points, communication strategies, and evacuation routes, reducing confusion and stress during emergencies.