In truth, it’s hard to prepare for disasters. Because of cognitive process called “normalcy bias”
we are prone to thinking a disaster won’t happen to us. Research shows, however, that after
disasters, people often experience guilt that extends well beyond practical preparedness,
thinking, "I should have protected my family better, I should have convinced my neighbor to leave, I should have packed more, I should have taken the threat seriously, and so on. In fact, in one study people didn’t regret what they did in emergency, even if it was a mistake. They
regretted most what they did not do.

Source: https://nhess.copernicus.org/articles/25/2929/2025/

Make a Go-bag and Emergency Plan Before the Disaster
When confronted with an emergency such as a tornado, flood, or wildfire, the brain rapidly shifts
into survival mode. The body releases hormones such as adrenaline and cortisol that increase
alertness, heart rate, and energy. These changes help people react quickly to danger, but they
can also narrow attention, make it harder to process complex information, and lead to impulsive
or automatic decisions. As a result, people may experience fear, confusion, difficulty
concentrating, memory lapses, or a strong urge to act immediately. These reactions are normal
and reflect the brain's attempt to protect us from harm. Having a plan, practicing emergency
procedures BEFORE the emergency, and not having to put your go-bag together on the fly can
help the thinking parts of the brain stay engaged with the emergency and improve decision-
making during a crisis.

While we can’t prove go-bags save lives, rapid evacuation does increase survival. And access
to medication, identification, and other essential supplies reduces the medical complications and logistical problems of an evacuation.

Make your go-bag here: https://www.livingwithfire.org/get-prepared/make-an-evacuation-
plan/make-a-go-bag-and-disaster-supplies-kit/.

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We also recommend putting treasured photos and small objects that remind you of home and
family in it.

 

Sign Up for Evacuation Alerts
Research consistently shows that people who evacuate promptly when authorities recommend
leaving are generally safer than those who delay. Fast-moving emergencies can change rapidly.
Many disaster survivors report wishing they had left earlier, while studies find that delays often
occur because people underestimate the threat, wait for additional confirmation, or spend
valuable time gathering belongings. Have a plan, know where to go, and keep your go bag
ready.
Your phone is already equipped with emergency notifications from the Federal Government. Go
to Notifications/Safety Settings and enable government alerts. To get alerts about your exact
GPS location, you can also download the CodeRED Mobile Alert app on the Apple App
Store or Google Play Store. For broader national preparedness and specific alerts, you can
download the FEMA App via Ready.gov, and get real-time weather and emergency alerts for up
to five locations nationwide.

Here's help for getting emergency notifications specific to Nevada:
https://www.livingwithfire.org/get-prepared/make-an-evacuation-plan/sign-up-for-emergency-notifications/

Remember: Most people don't regret being prepared. They regret wishing they had been.

Learn more about all kinds of disasters and how to prepare for them:
https://www.redcross.org/get-help/how-to-prepare-for-emergencies/types-of-
emergencies.html?srsltid=AfmBOopJsu3e7_wIjBA8OlxoWvdzaLJ8nX145QIyXIPp1hKSp-
WhinrA