Even if you’re well prepared, being in the thick of a disaster can be scary and overwhelming. Part II of Navigating Natural Disasters: From Preparation to Recovery explores a few things to remember when nature strikes.
Ensure safety and contact first responders:
- Prioritize your safety and that of your family.
- Immediately call first responders, such as firefighters, paramedics, and the police, if anyone is in a dangerous situation.
- Inform local authorities about any major roadblocks or if you require immediate food and shelter.
Seek emergency shelter if necessary:
- If it’s unsafe to return home or you cannot reach it safely, find emergency shelter.
- Text “DRC” followed by your ZIP code to 43362 to connect with FEMA’s Disaster Recovery Center, which operates nationwide. They can aid in locating and accessing emergency shelters.
Account for the well-being of loved ones:
- If you are separated from your family during the disaster, prioritize locating and ensuring the safety of your loved ones. Assess their well-being and make decisions accordingly.
- Only move injured individuals if they are in immediate danger; otherwise, wait for professional medical assistance and stabilize them if necessary.
Secure personal property and protect your identity:
- Whether you remain in your home or seek emergency shelter, make sure your home is locked and your personal belongings are secure.
- Take steps to safeguard your personal information.
- Immediately contact creditors to report lost credit cards. Work with your bank to replace lost checks or bank cards.
For educational purposes only. If we are your mortgage servicer, please contact us for specific guidance.