The disaster may be over—but recovery hazards can be just as dangerous. Learn what to do in the first hour and first day after a disaster: safety checks, carbon monoxide prevention, damage documentation for insurance, food and water precautions, cleanup and mold awareness, and practical steps to stabilize your household and recover faster.

When a disaster hits, the goal is simple: protect life first, avoid predictable hazards, and follow clear decision rules. This guide walks you through what to do in the first 60 seconds, when to evacuate vs shelter in place, and hazard-specific safety steps—so you’re not guessing when it matters most.

Before a disaster strikes, your job is simple: make a plan, build a 72-hour kit, set up alerts, and stage essentials for fast access. This BlackStar Survival checklist breaks it down into steps you can execute in minutes—so you’re not guessing when things go sideways.