U.S. disaster preparedness gap identified in new research

Research from United Way Worldwide and Verizon indicates a significant gap in disaster readiness among U.S. adults. While 60% of respondents expressed concern regarding potential natural disasters affecting their households in the coming year, only 15% reported feeling very prepared.

Key barriers to preparedness include cost (45%), lack of knowledge on where to begin (28%), and time constraints (25%). To address these challenges, the United We Prepare initiative, supported by Verizon, provides free workshops, emergency kit distribution, and guidance on local emergency services.

Recommended zero-cost preparation steps include identifying key emergency contacts outside of one's immediate community, maintaining updated physical and digital contact lists, and enabling wireless emergency alerts on mobile devices to stay informed during severe weather events.