Being prepared while you move homes

For someone who says they hate moving, I sure do it a lot. Right now, as I write this, I am resting my feet on a stack of boxes I packed last night. Moving causes a lot of upheaval, it's stressful and generally not all that fun, it can also mean that during this temporary situation we don't always pay attention to things like preparedness.

Here are a few tips for staying prepared while you move out of your old home and into your new one:
 

Getting ready to move:

• Make sure important items like your emergency kit and first aid kit are still in a clear and obvious place if you need to evacuate
• Keep boxes and other items away from heat sources
• Organizing boxes can be a pain, but avoid stacking them too high as they can fall or cause injury when you are moving them
• Be sure that exits have not been blocked by all those boxes or disassembled furniture, make sure there is still a path if you need to leave quickly
• Make sure boxes and other items aren’t covering carbon monoxide detectors
• Take care when you are moving heavy items, if something is too heavy get help with it
• Wash your hands regularly while your packing, you’re touching a lot of communal space and items right now!

In your new home:

• Your new neighbourhood and community might have different risks. For example, you might have had a risk for flooding before, but now it’s important to be ready for wildfire season. Take some time to learn the risks and adapt your emergency preparedness plan
• Find your new spot for your emergency kit and make sure everyone in the household knows where it is now
• Review your new emergency plan with everyone in the household and have a drill to practice
• Replace the batteries in smoke and carbon monoxide detectors when you move in
• As you're unpacking, make sure cardboard and other packing materials are away from heat sources

Moving can be really exciting, but sometimes people need to move for complicated or upsetting reasons, sometimes not everyone wants to leave, and even the most seasoned mover is going to get stressed. Our psychological first aid guide has tips to help manage stress and assist those around you.

Enjoy your new home!
 

Related stories:

• Welcome to my home! Let me show you the emergency exits
• Tips for new homeowners
• House fire safety tips