Preparedness is more about resourcefulness than money. You can start for free by learning essential skills like basic first aid from online resources. Build your emergency food supply by adding just one or two extra canned items to your grocery cart each week. The most important thing is to start, not to buy everything at once.

Make it an adventure! Frame preparedness as being responsible and helpful, like a superhero’s mission. Involve kids in packing their own “go-bag” with a favorite (non-perishable) snack, a small toy, and a flashlight. Practice what to do during a power outage by having a “camping night” in the living room. This empowers them and makes preparedness a normal part of family safety.

Focus on the fundamentals that will help in almost any situation. The most critical items are a well-stocked first-aid kit, a reliable flashlight or headlamp for each family member (with extra batteries), an emergency hand-crank radio to stay informed, and emergency blankets for warmth.

No, the best strategy is an “all-hazards” approach that covers the basics for any disruption. Your core needs for shelter, first aid, communication, and supplies will be the same whether it’s a natural disaster or a power grid failure. Once you have that solid foundation, you can add a few specific items for risks that are common in your local area.