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5 DISASTER PREP PRO TIPS In addition to creating an emergency action plan, following these expert tips will help your community prepare for any type of disaster it may encounter. 1. Practice for Emergencies Develop and conduct a preparedness drill for fires, floods, chemical spills, airborne diseases, and weather conditions with residents annually. These drills are especially necessary for communities with elevators, those near major highway evacuation routes, or for stacked homes with stairwells. If possible, invite your emergency management service or fire department to participate. 2. Educate Homeowners Homeowners may make their own personal efforts to prepare for disasters, but some may be unaware or unable to do so. Reach out to all homeowners, including the elderly and those with special needs, to check if they have proper individual plans and supplies, like water, non-perishable food, first-aid kits, flashlights, and batteries in place. Share the emergency action plan with them, and consider holding a session to answer questions and provide best practices. 3. Routinely Check Safety Equipment Items and assets covered in the emergency plan should be routinely inspected to ensure functionality and minimize damages. Any safety equipment, such as fire extinguishers, smoke alarms or detectors, and interior sprinkler systems, should be upgraded (per budget planning) and have preventive maintenance schedules. 4. Regularly Review Insurance Policies Ensure insurance coverages are reviewed annually and reflect the emergency action plan and budget. Confirm there's a clear understanding of what is covered and what isn't. If your plan doesn't cover damage from specific disasters, discuss if buying additional coverage makes sense for your association at your next board meeting. 5. Prioritize Communication Communication, or lack thereof, is the main area in which most managers and boards receive criticism amid a crisis. Make sure residents are aware of designated processes and channels to communicate before, during, and after an emergency.