FEMA’s Struggles: Why Preppers Must Take Hurricane Season Seriously
Every year, hurricanes threaten the United States, especially for people living along the Atlantic and Gulf coasts. Many Americans count on the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) to help after a disaster. But according to a recent internal review, FEMA may not be ready for the 2024 hurricane season. This is a wake-up call for anyone who wants to safeguard their family. It’s more important than ever to be self-reliant and prepared.
FEMA’s Shortages: What It Means for You
The internal review found that FEMA currently has only 60% of the staff needed to handle a major hurricane or several disasters at once. Many employees also lack important training and experience. This means that after a big storm, help from the government could be slow or not enough. If two or more disasters happen close together, the situation could get even worse.
While FEMA is working to fix these problems, there is no guarantee they will be ready before hurricane season peaks. You cannot depend on FEMA alone. The best way to protect yourself and your loved ones is to be prepared on your own.
Why Prepping Is More Important Than Ever
When disasters strike, self-reliance is key. Even if help arrives, it may take days or even weeks before you get the assistance you need. Stores may be empty, roads could be blocked, and power could be out for a long time. By preparing now, you can make sure your family stays safe, fed, and comfortable no matter what happens.
Action Steps: Prepare for Hurricane Season
Don’t wait for FEMA or anyone else. Take control of your own safety. Use this checklist to get ready for hurricane season:
- Make an Emergency Plan: Know where you will go if you need to evacuate. Decide how you will communicate with family and friends if cell service is down.
- Stock Up on Essentials: Have at least 2 weeks’ worth of water (1 gallon per person per day), non-perishable food, and basic supplies like flashlights, batteries, and first aid kits.
- Prepare Your Home: Secure windows and doors with storm shutters or plywood. Clean gutters and trim trees to prevent damage. Know how to turn off your utilities if needed.
- Keep Important Documents Safe: Store copies of IDs, insurance papers, and medical records in a waterproof container or on a USB drive.
- Have Backup Power: Consider a generator or solar charger for essential devices. Keep extra fuel safely stored if you use a generator.
- Build a Go-Bag: Pack a backpack with clothes, snacks, cash, medicine, and other items you would need if you had to leave fast.
- Stay Informed: Have a battery-powered or hand-crank weather radio to get updates if the power goes out.
Practice Survival Skills
Being prepared is more than just having supplies. Practice important skills now so you’re not caught off guard later. Here are a few to work on:
- First Aid: Learn how to treat cuts, burns, and other injuries. Take a basic first aid class if you can.
- Water Purification: Know how to filter and disinfect water if your supply runs out or is contaminated.
- Cooking Without Power: Practice using a camp stove, grill, or even an open fire safely.
- Communication: Plan how to reach loved ones if cell towers go down. Walkie-talkies or CB radios can help.
Don’t Rely on Government Aid
The recent FEMA report is a reminder that government help may not come quickly after a major disaster. Your safety and comfort are your responsibility. Take the time now to get your home, supplies, and family ready. The more prepared you are, the less you will need to depend on outside help.
Community Matters: Work Together
If possible, get your neighbors and friends involved in prepping. Communities that work together before and after disaster strike are stronger and recover faster. Share plans, split up supply lists, and check in on each other—especially the elderly or those who live alone.
- Organize a neighborhood preparedness meeting
- Share tips and resources with friends and family
- Identify skills and equipment you can share, like chainsaws or backup power
Stay Ahead, Stay Safe
With predictions for an above-average hurricane season and FEMA’s own report showing big gaps, now is the time to take action. By preparing yourself, your family, and your community, you reduce stress and increase your chances of staying safe no matter what this hurricane season brings. Don’t wait for the next storm—start getting ready today.