You’ve Evacuated, Now What? Staying Safe and Calm in the Aftermath

You’ve Evacuated, Now What?

Staying Safe and Calm in the Aftermath

Introduction

Emergencies often don’t end when you’ve left your home. Once you’ve evacuated, you’re faced with the challenge of navigating uncertainty while keeping yourself and your loved ones safe. Knowing what to do next can make all the difference in how well you cope with the situation.

If you’ve evacuated and are wondering “what now?” here’s a practical guide to help you stay prepared and safe during the aftermath of an emergency.

table of content

  1. Introduction
  2. Essentials to Keep in Your Car
  3. What to Look Out for When Evacuating
  4. Who to Contact in Case of Emergencies
  5.  Surviving in Your Car if You’ve Reached a Safe Spot
  6. Final Thoughts: Safety First, Always

Essentials

to Keep in Your Car

When evacuating, your car can quickly become your lifeline. Ensuring it’s stocked with essentials ahead of time can make the experience much more manageable.

Here’s what to keep in your car for emergencies:

  • Water and non-perishable snacks: Enough for every person in your family for at least 24 hours.
  • Blankets and warm clothing: Nights can get cold, even in warmer climates.
  • First aid kit: Include bandages, antiseptic wipes, pain relievers, and any essential medications.
  • Flashlight and extra batteries: A reliable light source is critical when you’re on the road or in the dark.
  • Phone chargers and power banks: To keep your devices charged and connected.
  • Personal hygiene items: Wet wipes, hand sanitiser, and toilet paper can go a long way.
  • Basic tools: A multi-tool, duct tape, and a tire repair kit can be invaluable.
  • Important documents: Keep IDs, insurance papers, and medical records in a waterproof folder or use a tool like Trustworthy to store digital copies securely.

What to Look Out for When

Evacuating

Evacuations can be stressful, but staying alert and informed will keep you safer. Here are a few key things to watch for:

  • Traffic patterns: Major roads and highways may become congested during an evacuation. Use navigation apps to find less crowded routes.
  • Weather conditions: Keep an eye on real-time weather updates, as conditions can change quickly.
  • Hazards on the road: Be cautious of debris, fallen trees, or downed power lines that could make driving dangerous.
  • Emergency alerts: Pay attention to alerts from local authorities about evacuation zones, shelters, or unsafe areas.

Pro Tip: If you’re unsure about road conditions, pull over to a safe spot and wait for updates. Your safety is the top priority.

Who to Contact in Case of Emergencies

Having a clear list of contacts can make a world of difference in an evacuation scenario. Make sure you have these contacts saved in your phone and written down on paper as a backup:

  • Local emergency numbers: Police, fire department, or disaster response teams in your area.
  • Out-of-town family or friends: Designate someone as your primary emergency contact to keep updated on your status.
  • Insurance providers: For any claims related to your home, vehicle, or belongings.
  • Evacuation shelters: If you need a safe place to stay, check the locations of nearby shelters.
  • Utility companies: To report downed power lines, gas leaks, or other utility issues.

Pro Tip: Use the NOK Box to organize and store emergency contact information and instructions, ensuring everything is in one place when you need it most.

Surviving in Your Car if You’ve Reached a Safe Spot

Sometimes, you may need to stay in your car for extended periods after evacuation. Whether you’re waiting for further instructions or unable to reach a shelter, here are some basics to help you get through it:

  • Stay hydrated and fed: Ration your food and water carefully to ensure you have enough to last.
  • Stay warm: Use blankets and layered clothing to retain body heat if it’s cold. If it’s hot, open windows slightly to allow for ventilation.
  • Conserve fuel: Only run the car engine sparingly, especially if fuel stations are unavailable. Use it to charge devices or provide heat for short periods.
  • Get comfortable: Recline seats and use pillows or extra clothing for support.
  • Stay informed: Listen to emergency radio stations or check online updates (if you have cell service) to stay aware of the situation.

Keep visibility: Turn on hazard lights if you’re parked in a dark or isolated area to alert others to your presence.

Final Thoughts: Safety First, Always

Emergencies are unpredictable, but staying organized and calm after evacuation can help you navigate the uncertainty with confidence. From preparing your car to knowing who to contact, every step you take toward readiness can make a significant difference in your safety and well-being.

At “Let’s Get Organized,” we believe that preparedness is an essential part of living an organized life. If you’d like help creating an emergency plan or organizing your essentials, reach out to us—we’re here to guide you every step of the way.

Stay Safe. Stay Ready.

Let us help you get prepared for anything life throws your way. Contact us today for practical solutions that give you peace of mind in uncertain times.

author

Gayle M. Gruenberg

Gayle M. Gruenberg, CPO-CD®, CVOP, is the Chief Executive Organizer of Let’s Get Organized, LLC, an award-winning professional organizing firm based in Bergen County, New Jersey. Gayle is the creator of the Make Space for Blessings™ system. LGO works with busy families to help them find more time, space, money, and energy and connect their lives to their core values through being organized. 

Note: A version of this article was originally published in the November 2020 edition of 24/Seven, the magazine of the lifestyle brand Change Your Attitude, Change Your Life.

Are You Prepared for an Emergency? Lessons from Recent Disasters

Are You Prepared for an Emergency?

Lessons from Recent Disasters

Introduction

In the wake of recent tragedies, such as Hurricane Helen and the devastating California fires, many of us have been reminded of just how fragile life can be. These disasters left countless families displaced, forcing them to evacuate within minutes and leaving them grappling with the challenge of rebuilding their lives from scratch.

As Professional Organizers, our mission goes beyond decluttering homes and creating functional spaces—we also help people prepare for the unexpected. Emergencies can happen to anyone, anywhere, at any time. And while we can’t prevent disasters, we can take steps to prepare ourselves and our families to weather them with greater safety and confidence.

table of content

  1. Introduction
  2. The Importance of Being Prepared
  3. 5 Steps to Prepare for the Unexpected
  4. How Being Prepared Can Save Your Life
  5. A Final Thought: Stay Informed, Stay Ready
  6. Conclusion

The Importance of Being

Prepared

When an emergency strikes, every second counts. Imagine needing to leave your home with just a moment’s notice—what would you take with you? Would you have everything you need?
Being prepared isn’t just about having supplies on hand; it’s about ensuring you have access to the essential information, documents, and tools that will help you stay safe and rebuild your life afterward.

Here are a few sobering facts:

  • A study by FEMA shows that 60% of Americans are not prepared for a disaster.
  • Many evacuees report that in the chaos of fleeing, they left behind critical documents such as IDs, insurance policies, and medical records.

While no one wants to think about the worst, preparing for emergencies can make an unimaginable situation just a little less overwhelming.

5 Steps to Prepare for the

Unexpected

  1. Create a Go-Bag
    A go-bag is a portable emergency kit you can grab at a moment’s notice. It should include:
  • Non-perishable food and water (enough for 3 days).
  • Flashlights, batteries, and a first aid kit.
  • Important medications and copies of prescriptions.
  • A change of clothes, cash, and a list of emergency contacts.
  • Comfort items for children or pets.

Pro Tip: Store your go-bag in an easily accessible location, and make sure every family member knows where to find it.

  1. Safeguard Your Documents
    Your personal documents are crucial to recovering after a disaster. Birth certificates, passports, insurance policies, and even digital account information should all be safeguarded.

We recommend using tools like Trustworthy to securely digitize and organize your family’s critical documents. This platform keeps everything accessible and safe, even if the originals are lost or destroyed.

  1. Prepare for Your Pets
    Don’t forget about your furry family members! Pack pet essentials, such as food, water, leashes, and vaccination records. If possible, add a favorite toy or blanket to keep them calm in stressful situations.
  2. Have a Communication Plan
    During emergencies, it’s easy to lose contact with loved ones. Create a family communication plan that includes:
  • A designated meeting spot.
  • An out-of-town emergency contact.
  • A plan for how to stay in touch if cell service is unavailable.

5. Invest in a NOK Box
The NOK Box is an invaluable resource for families. It helps you gather and organize all the documents, instructions, and wishes your next of kin (NOK) would need in case of an emergency or loss. Whether you’re planning for disaster preparedness or simply want peace of mind, this tool ensures that you and your loved ones are ready for the unexpected.

How Being Prepared Can Save Your Life

Preparation isn’t just about survival during the emergency—it’s about making the recovery process smoother. When you have your vital documents, emergency kit, and communication plan in place, you’re not just protecting yourself; you’re also giving your family the tools to rebuild their lives after a disaster.

A Final Thought: Stay Informed, Stay Ready

At “Let’s Get Organized,” we’re passionate about helping you prepare not just for day-to-day life, but for life’s unpredictable moments as well. Being prepared is an act of love for yourself, your family, and your future.

If you’re unsure where to start or need help getting your emergency preparedness plan in place, we’re here to help. Let’s work together to ensure you’re ready for whatever life throws your way.

Conclusion

If you’d like guidance on creating your emergency preparedness plan or want to learn more about using tools like Trustworthy and the NOK Box, contact us today. Together, we can make sure you and your loved ones are ready for the unexpected.

author

Gayle M. Gruenberg

Gayle M. Gruenberg, CPO-CD®, CVOP, is the Chief Executive Organizer of Let’s Get Organized, LLC, an award-winning professional organizing firm based in Bergen County, New Jersey. Gayle is the creator of the Make Space for Blessings™ system. LGO works with busy families to help them find more time, space, money, and energy and connect their lives to their core values through being organized. 

Note: A version of this article was originally published in the November 2020 edition of 24/Seven, the magazine of the lifestyle brand Change Your Attitude, Change Your Life.

5 Ways Being Organized Can Save Your Life in an Emergency

5 Ways Being Organized

Can Save Your Life in an Emergency

table of content

  1. Introduction
  2. Teach Your Children Safety Protocols
  3. Train Your Pets to Use Their Carriers
  4.  Keep Valuables in an Accessible Location
  5.  Pack a Go-Bag
  6.  Know What Counts as Essentials
  7. Being Prepared Is an Act of Love

Introduction

Emergencies can strike without warning, leaving little time to think or act. Whether it’s a natural disaster, a sudden evacuation, or a personal crisis, being organized can make all the difference. Having a plan in place not only ensures your safety but also helps you and your loved ones navigate a chaotic situation with confidence and calm.

Here are five life-saving tips to help you prepare for the unexpected:

Teach Your Children

Safety Protocols

Children need to know what to do in an emergency situation. Taking the time to teach them safety protocols can save precious minutes when it matters most.

  • Show them how to dial emergency numbers.
  • Create and practice evacuation drills at home, so they know how to get out quickly and safely.
  • Teach them how to identify safe meeting spots inside and outside the house, as well as a backup location if you’re separated.

Pro Tip: Keep instructions simple and repeat them regularly to ensure they remember what to do when stress levels are high.

Train Your Pets to Use Their

Carriers

Pets often hide when they’re scared, which can make evacuations even more challenging. By training your pets to see their carriers as a safe space, they’ll be more likely to retreat there during an emergency.

  • Keep their carriers accessible and encourage them to spend time in them regularly, even during calm times.
  • Use treats, toys, or blankets to make the carrier a cozy and familiar environment.

When time is of the essence, knowing your pet will head straight to their carrier can save you from the stress and delays of searching for them.

Keep Valuables in an Accessible Location

Your most important documents and valuables should be stored in a safe, easy-to-grab location in case of evacuation. This includes birth certificates, passports, insurance policies, and irreplaceable sentimental items.

Using tools like the NOK Box or Trustworthy can help you keep everything organized:

  • The NOK Box: A physical box designed to store all your important documents and instructions in one place.
  • Trustworthy: A secure online platform that digitizes and stores your family’s critical information, ensuring you can access it from anywhere.

With everything ready to go, you’ll have peace of mind knowing you can leave quickly without worrying about losing critical items.

Pack a Go-Bag

A go-bag is an essential item for emergencies, providing you with everything you need for the first 72 hours. Preparing one ahead of time ensures you’re ready to leave at a moment’s notice.

Here’s what to include in your go-bag:

Water (1 gallon per person per day for 3 days).
Non-perishable food (enough for 3 days).
First aid kit and any essential medications.
Flashlights, batteries, and a portable phone charger.
Cash, identification, and copies of critical documents.
Comfort items for children or pets.

Store your go-bag in an easily accessible location, and make sure every family member knows where it is.

Know What Counts as Essentials

When you need to evacuate, there’s no time to second-guess what’s important. Having a prioritized list of essentials can save valuable time and reduce stress.

Essentials to focus on include:

  • Critical documents and IDs.
  • Prescriptions and medical devices.
  • Family heirlooms or sentimental items that can’t be replaced.
  • Items for children and pets, such as diapers or pet food.
  • Electronics and chargers.

By deciding ahead of time what’s most important, you’ll avoid the panic of trying to pack while the clock is ticking.

Being Prepared Is an Act of Love

Taking the time to organize now can protect you and your family later. Emergencies are unpredictable, but your preparation doesn’t have to be. By teaching your children and pets what to do, securing your valuables, and packing a go-bag, you’re investing in your family’s safety and future

At “Let’s Get Organized,” we believe that being prepared is one of the greatest gifts you can give yourself and your loved ones. If you’re unsure where to start or need help creating your emergency preparedness plan, we’re here to guide you every step of the way.

Ready to Get Organized?
Contact us today to learn how we can help you prepare for life’s unexpected moments.

author

Gayle M. Gruenberg

Gayle M. Gruenberg, CPO-CD®, CVOP, is the Chief Executive Organizer of Let’s Get Organized, LLC, an award-winning professional organizing firm based in Bergen County, New Jersey. Gayle is the creator of the Make Space for Blessings™ system. LGO works with busy families to help them find more time, space, money, and energy and connect their lives to their core values through being organized. 

Note: A version of this article was originally published in the November 2020 edition of 24/Seven, the magazine of the lifestyle brand Change Your Attitude, Change Your Life.

Goal Setting & Decluttering Challenges: How to Tackle Clutter and Achieve Your Organizational Dreams

Goal Setting & Decluttering Challenges

Achieving Your Organized Space

Introduction

Decluttering can feel overwhelming, but breaking down the process into achievable goals makes it more manageable. Goal setting is essential for staying motivated, maintaining focus, and successfully completing the decluttering journey. Whether you’re tidying up a single room or tackling a whole house, having clear, measurable goals can make all the difference. This blog will explore how to set effective decluttering goals, face common challenges, and provide strategies to stay on track and create lasting results.

table of content

  1. Introduction
  2. Why Goal Setting is Key to Decluttering
  3. How to Set Achievable Decluttering Goals
  4. Decluttering Challenges: Overcoming Common Obstacles
  5. The Role of Accountability in Goal Setting
  6. Quick Tips for Staying on Track
  7. Conclusion

Why Goal Setting is Key to

Decluttering?

When you set specific decluttering goals, it provides direction and purpose. Rather than diving into a messy room without a plan, goal setting allows you to focus your energy where it’s most needed. Goals help you break down large tasks into smaller, more manageable chunks, preventing overwhelm. It also helps you measure progress, which boosts motivation.

For example, instead of saying, “I need to declutter my closet,” set a goal like, “I will sort through my shoes and donate those I haven’t worn in the last year.” This creates a clear, achievable task that feels rewarding when completed.

How to Set Achievable

Decluttering Goals

Setting achievable goals is a critical aspect of the decluttering process. Here’s how to do it:

  1. Be Specific: Instead of general goals like “organize the kitchen,” focus on specific tasks, such as “sort through the kitchen drawers and remove expired food.”

  2. Set Realistic Timeframes: Allocate realistic amounts of time to each task. If you’re decluttering your bedroom, set aside an hour a day instead of trying to complete it in one marathon session.

  3. Use the SMART Goal Framework: SMART goals are Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant, and Time-bound. For example, “Sort through my closet and donate clothes I haven’t worn in 6 months by Friday.”

  4. Break It Down: Large spaces like the living room or garage can feel daunting. Break them down into smaller goals. Tackle the bookshelves first, then the coffee table, and so on.

Decluttering Challenges: Overcoming Common Obstacles

While goal setting is vital, it’s common to face obstacles along the way. Here are some challenges people face when decluttering and how to overcome them:

  1. Emotional Attachments: Many struggle with letting go of items that have sentimental value. A great tip is to ask yourself, “If I didn’t have this item, would I miss it?” Sometimes taking a photo of the item allows you to keep the memory without the clutter.

  2. Time Constraints: With busy schedules, finding the time to declutter can be tough. Setting small goals and allocating 15-30 minutes a day to decluttering is a manageable way to stay consistent.

  3. Decision Fatigue: Deciding what to keep and what to donate can be mentally exhausting. Simplify the process by creating categories like “keep,” “donate,” and “recycle,” and don’t overthink it. If you’re unsure, it’s okay to set aside items to revisit later.

  4. Unclear Priorities: If your goals aren’t clearly defined, it’s easy to lose focus. Write down your goals, prioritize them, and stick to the plan. If you finish one area, move to the next one without jumping between tasks.

The Role of Accountability in Goal Setting

Having someone to hold you accountable increases your chances of success. Whether it’s a friend, family member, or an online decluttering group, sharing your progress motivates you to stay on track. You could even involve your partner or kids in the process for added teamwork and fun. Accountability keeps you accountable, ensuring that you complete your tasks within the set deadlines.

 

Quick Tips for Staying on Track

  • Celebrate Small Wins: Celebrate every goal you achieve, no matter how small. This builds momentum and keeps you motivated for the next task.

  • Use a Timer: Set a timer for 20-30 minutes of focused work to prevent burnout. When the timer goes off, take a break and come back refreshed.

  • Stay Flexible: Life happens. If you miss a day or two, don’t stress. Adjust your goals as needed, but stay committed to decluttering.

  • Visualize Your Success: Picture the benefits of a decluttered space. Whether it’s more room, less stress, or a cleaner home, keep these benefits in mind to stay motivated.

Conclusion

Goal setting is the backbone of successful decluttering. By setting clear, realistic goals and breaking down tasks into smaller, manageable chunks, you’ll find that the decluttering process is not only achievable but also rewarding. While challenges are inevitable, having a strategy in place to overcome them will keep you on track toward a more organized, stress-free home. Remember to stay consistent, celebrate progress, and most importantly—keep your eyes on the prize: a clutter-free space that reflects your peace of mind.

Whether you’re tackling your closet or an entire home, goal setting is the secret weapon you need to achieve your decluttering dreams.

author

Gayle M. Gruenberg

Gayle M. Gruenberg, CPO-CD®, CVOP, is the Chief Executive Organizer of Let’s Get Organized, LLC, an award-winning professional organizing firm based in Bergen County, New Jersey. Gayle is the creator of the Make Space for Blessings™ system. LGO works with busy families to help them find more time, space, money, and energy and connect their lives to their core values through being organized. 

Note: A version of this article was originally published in the November 2020 edition of 24/Seven, the magazine of the lifestyle brand Change Your Attitude, Change Your Life.