In a recent National Geographic article on disaster preparedness, two experts discussed how individuals can better prepare for increasingly frequent and severe climate‑driven hazards. Nicole Errett (pictured), the faculty director of the University of Washington’s Center for Disaster Resilient Communities, emphasized that preparedness planning is most effective when done calmly in advance, rather than during a crisis. She described integrating readiness into daily life by routinely rotating supplies like water, keeping a full gas tank and cash on hand and ensuring emergency items are accessible rather than stored away and forgotten.
Errett also highlighted the importance of situational awareness, such as knowing local hazards, evacuation zones and escape routes, as a core part of preparedness. For evacuation‑prone areas, she recommends maintaining a go bag with medications, documents, food, water and essential tools. She underscored that preparedness can be built gradually over time, making it more manageable and more likely to be sustained.