Experts Weigh in on the Benefits of Being Prepared for Disaster
When disaster strikes, everyone turns to trained, front-line heroes to swoop in, rescue people, and help everyone navigate through the chaos—people like emergency medicine physician, Reza Danesh, who told CNN what it was like to rush into the Lahaina, Maui wildfires to help.
“It was still fresh and hot, like an atomic bomb had gone off.”
First responders are special people, but there’s no reason why only professionals like Dr. Danesh should be prepared for emergencies. With the right mindset, training, and tools, virtually anyone can prepare for disasters, learn to act like a first responder, and help themselves, their families, and their communities when catastrophe strikes.
What First Responders Know
First responders provide the ultimate blueprint for disaster readiness. They don’t flee from danger—they run toward it to save lives. What makes them so effective? And what are the benefits?
First responders study disasters objectively, drill tirelessly, and train to stay calm and focused under pressure.
Training for the unexpected: First responders are masters of preparation. They study disasters objectively, drill tirelessly, and train to stay calm and focused under pressure.
Strength in mind and body: Physical fitness is central to their ability to carry out rescues, move debris, and endure long, stressful hours. Mental resilience helps them remain composed in chaos. They’re in peak condition for life—at its worst or at its best.
The right tools: They select the best equipment for any situation and ensure that every tool is organized, accessible, and ready for immediate use—even in the dark or under stress. And much of it can be part of rewarding recreation, like camping, rock-climbing, or hiking.
A service mindset: They understand the importance of helping others, especially the most vulnerable. Empathy drives their actions, making them invaluable in moments of crisis. “Every life deserves to be saved,” says first responder and former nurse, Alysia Eaves. “It’s up to us to get them through.”
People in all walks of life can adopt these practices and find fulfillment in becoming better prepared to step up in times of disaster and help themselves and their communities. “I want to make a difference,” says Eaves.
Physical Fitness for Disaster Readiness
"When life throws hurricanes, earthquakes, or even zombie apocalypses your way, it’s not just canned beans and flashlights that matter—it’s your body, mind, and community spirit,” says Jerome Draculan, NASM-certified personal trainer and operations manager of Strength Shop USA, a provider of fitness equipment.
Whether it’s pulling debris to free someone, carrying an injured person, or climbing to safety, physical fitness can make the difference between survival and tragedy.
Being in peak physical condition is critical during natural disasters. Whether it’s pulling debris to free someone, carrying an injured person, or climbing to safety, physical fitness can make the difference between survival and tragedy.
One 2012 study found that people with higher average weight and cardiovascular endurance levels had a better initial response to emergencies.
What kind of flexibility, strength, and balance exercises should people do to improve their chances in natural disaster settings? Here’s what Chris Pruitt, CEO of gym equipment seller WorkoutHealthy, advises:
Flexibility: Dynamic stretches, like hip openers and arm circles, improve one’s range of motion and prepare one’s body for sudden movements.
Strength: Exercises like deadlifts, farmer’s carries, and push-ups mimic real-world tasks like lifting heavy objects or carrying supplies.
Balance: Single-leg exercises, like lunges or single-leg deadlifts, prepare one to navigate uneven terrain safely.
“Physical activity helps regulate stress hormones, release endorphins, and restore a sense of control,” says Pruitt. “Even simple activities like walking or bodyweight exercises can provide structure and routine during the chaos of recovery. Engaging in physical activity with others also builds camaraderie and strengthens community bonds, both of which are essential for emotional well-being.”
Other advice from survivalist experts is to practice going without food or sleep for short periods to simulate emergency conditions and include exercises that mimic disaster situations, such as climbing stairs while carrying a heavy bag or navigating uneven terrain.
Is it necessary to train like someone going on an episode of Survivor?
“A little deprivation training can be useful (e.g., skipping a meal or losing a few hours of sleep), but there’s no need to go full Bear Grylls—unless you want to,” says Draculan. “Early warning systems often give you prep time, but fitness is key for those ‘Oh crap, it’s happening now’ moments.”
Ultimately, say the experts at public safety assistance firm, Lexipol, when people fail to prioritize their physical health, their bodies aren’t prepared for the “rigors” of a role in public safety. “Your personal life is negatively impacted by inadequate fitness as well.”
It’s smart to take a training class. CERT offers training for civilians in disaster response skills, and local American Red Cross centers provide first aid, CPR, and disaster preparedness courses.
In addition to physical fitness and training, there are other ways to prepare. For heightened readiness, it’s smart to take a training class. For example, CERT (Community Emergency Response Team) offers training for civilians in disaster response skills while local American Red Cross centers provide first aid, CPR, and disaster preparedness courses.
Websites like TruePrepper and the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) offer relevant information. FEMA offers a free, printable preparedness plan to get started.
In addition to learning what to do, some gear is essential:
“Go Bag”: This refers to duffle bags or portable carriers filled with emergency essentials, such as nonperishable food, pet food, water, documents, cash, first-aid kits, can opener, blankets, flashlights and batteries. If making a go bag seems overwhelming, premade bags are available.
Protective gear: Make sure to have gloves, goggles, sturdy boots, and a multipurpose tool.
Communication tools: Battery-powered radios or satellite phones are best for staying in touch in an emergency.
Finally, create an exit plan. Know the local evacuation routes and practice using them with family, friends, and neighbors. Establish meeting points and check-in protocols for everyone. Also, plan contingencies for those needing additional assistance, such as the elderly, disabled people, and pets.
Breaking It Down: Small Steps Toward Big Goals
Preparing for disasters can feel overwhelming, but taking small steps makes it manageable:
Start with simple exercises like walking or swimming to build endurance.
Gradually add strength and balance exercises.
Assemble a basic emergency kit, then expand it over time.
Research local disaster training programs like CERT or the American Red Cross.
Why It’s Worth It
Preparing for disasters doesn’t just make someone ready for emergencies; it enhances their overall well-being. Physical activity improves mood and reduces stress, while readiness fosters confidence and peace of mind. Helping others strengthens community bonds and brings a sense of fulfillment that lasts long after the crisis has passed.
Even if disaster never strikes, the benefits of preparation ripple outward. A fit, resilient, and empathetic person is a boon to their community.
Even if disaster never strikes, the benefits of preparation ripple outward. A fit, resilient, and empathetic person is a boon to their community. “Helping others has a cascade effect that makes everyone stronger,” says Draculan. “And let’s be honest—when the chips are down, wouldn’t you rather be the calm, prepared helper than the frantic person screaming, ‘What do we do?’ Helping others makes you feel like a hero and builds trust and teamwork. Who doesn’t want to be the MVP of disaster readiness?”
A Better World Through Preparedness
Being ready for disasters isn’t just about survival—it’s about creating a better world. By training like a first responder, one invests in their physical and mental health, builds stronger relationships, and contributes to a safer, more prepared community. And if that disaster never comes? Gaining skills, confidence, and well-being is a win for everyone.
It’s disaster season somewhere, but with the right preparation, one can weather anything.
*Alina Bradford is a safety and security expert who has contributed to CBS, MTV, USA Today, Reader’s Digest, and more. She is currently the editorial lead at SafeWise.com.
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