How to Take Action Against Worsening Disasters

By Greg Collier

As disasters grow more frequent and severe due to the impacts of climate change, the American Red Cross is urging everyone to take important steps during National Preparedness Month this September. With deadly storms, wildfires, and extreme heat becoming increasingly common, the need for families to be prepared has never been greater.

Emergencies can strike at any time, often unexpectedly, leaving little time to react. This makes it crucial for households to have a plan in place and be ready for whatever might happen. Preparing for disasters involves thinking ahead about how to stay safe, gathering essential supplies, and knowing how to stay connected with loved ones during an emergency.

Planning for emergencies means considering whether it’s safer to stay where you are or to evacuate. If evacuation is necessary, it’s important to decide in advance where to go, how to get there, and what essentials to take. This kind of preparation helps ensure that everyone in your household knows what to do when disaster strikes.

Part of being prepared involves having enough supplies on hand to last through an emergency. It’s recommended to have kits for both evacuation and staying at home. These should include food, water, and medication, tailored to the specific needs of your household. For families with young children or pets, special items like diapers or pet food should be part of the plan. Equally important is having a way to reconnect with loved ones if normal communication is disrupted. Writing down important contact information and carrying it with you can be a lifesaver when phone lines or the internet are down.

This summer has seen unprecedented damage from climate-related disasters. Alongside wildfires, record-breaking hurricanes and extreme heat are reshaping the landscape of disaster preparedness. This year, the U.S. has experienced more billion-dollar disasters than ever before, with severe storms, fires, and extreme weather impacting millions of lives.

The Red Cross continues to be a vital source of support during these challenging times, providing shelter, food, and comfort to those affected by disasters. As part of National Preparedness Month, people are encouraged to get involved by donating, giving blood, or volunteering their time to help those in need. Learning basic first aid or taking other steps to prepare can make a big difference when disaster strikes.

For more information on how to prepare for emergencies and how to get involved in supporting disaster relief efforts, visit the Red Cross at redcross.org.