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As I listen to this morning’s ominous weather forecast, I am reminded that “organization” has countless beneficial applications. Being able to access what we need when we need it, setting priorities, planning ahead — core elements of organizing, can be applied to every aspect of life yielding productivity, effectiveness and efficiency. Another benefit of organization is that it allows a person time to think. During a disaster, when confusion and fear is high, clear headedness can be the difference between life and death. When I provide disaster services to my clients I emphasize that being disaster prepared is about clear-headedness and self-reliance. Here are simple, mainstream ways to get disaster prepared, not in the heat of the moment, but planned in advance.

• While you’re organizing your taxes or preparing for vacation, copy vital documents and store them offsite.
• When you organize the pantry, isolate a section of food that can be prepared without heat.
• When you spring clean, find a logical place for flashlights, batteries, and extra bottled water. Clear out clutter on the stairs and near the windows that could obstruct a rapid escape.
• When you organize electronic files, download essential files to a disc and secure it offsite.
• When you organize the basement, mark the gas, water, electric, and other utility on and off mechanisms with clear labels.
• When you schedule your vacation, schedule time to create a family communication plan.
• When you organize photographs, make excellent copies of heritage photographs. Display the copies and store and protect the originals.

Consult Organize for Disaster: Prepare Your Family and Your Home for Any Natural or Unnatural Disaster for more information or go to the American Red Cross .