Pre-disaster skills
1. Assesses home safety and reinforces structures to mitigate disaster risks.
2. Develops an emergency preparedness plan for family and community coordination.
3. Secures household items to minimize injury risks.
4. Knows how to locate, interpret, and act upon disaster warnings and alerts.
5. Understands financial preparedness (e.g., insurance coverage, emergency savings, disaster loans).
6. Prepares emergency supplies (go-bag, first aid kits, water, food, medications, fuel, and power sources).
7. Practices first aid and basic rescue skills to assist oneself and others.
8. Develops and practices a family communication plan in case of service disruptions.
9. Maintains digital literacy skills to verify and interpret emergency information from reliable sources.
10. Participates in disaster drills to build muscle memory for emergency responses.
11. Knows how to shut off utilities (gas, water, electricity) safely before or after a disaster.
12. Understands community emergency resources (shelters, aid organizations, response teams).
13. Prepares for potable water and wastewater outages by knowing alternative sources and solutions.
14. Prepares for mobility limitations by having alternative evacuation and transportation plans.
15. Trains in psychological first aid and emotional preparedness to support self and others.
16. Understands how to use fire extinguishers and other safety equipment in emergencies.

During-disaster skills
1. Maintains composure under pressure and makes quick, informed decisions.
2. Identifies the safest evacuation routes and sheltering areas based on the type of disaster.
3. Uses multiple communication methods (radio, SMS, social media, direct calls) to stay informed, listen to responders, and reach others.
4. Applies first aid, CPR, and rescue techniques to assist injured individuals.
5. Adapts to changing conditions and modifies plans based on the evolving disaster scenario.
6. Uses alternative communication methods when networks fail (e.g., signaling, written messages, HAM radio).
7. Coordinates with neighbors and community members to assist in group evacuation or sheltering.
8. Ensures the safety of vulnerable populations (elderly, children, individuals with disabilities).
9. Demonstrates effective problem-solving and teamwork in high-stress situations.

Post-disaster skills
1. Provides emotional support and psychological first aid to affected individuals.
2. Gathers damage and impact data to assist local authorities in recovery planning.
3. Accesses and applies disaster relief resources (government aid, community support, financial assistance).
4. Supports and collaborates with professional response teams in recovery efforts.
5. Shares accurate disaster-related information to prevent misinformation and panic.
6. Participates in rebuilding, mitigation, and recovery planning for long-term community resilience.
7. Checks on neighbors and vulnerable individuals’ post-disaster.
8. Manages stress and emotional resilience to navigate long-term disruptions.
9. Practices adaptability and innovation in using available resources when infrastructure is damaged.
10. Contributes to a culture of preparedness by educating others and sharing lessons learned.

SMS, short message service; CPR, cardiopulmonary resuscitation; HAM, amateur radio.