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We've seen the news around the world throughout the summer. Wildfires in Washington state, Canada, North Africa, Spain and France, among other places.
While much of our region's summer has had enough rainfall to keep our risks lower, Pennsylvania will have dry days ahead, at some point, for certain.
The American Red Cross advises families to be aware and be prepared -- for any natural disaster. If evacuation orders are given, being able to respond quickly can improve the odds of keeping your family safe.
The organization's website advises families to keep a "go-kit" -- 3 days of supplies that you can easily carry with you -- ready, as well as two weeks of supplies if you need to stay at home.Have a 1-month supply of medication in a child-proof container and keep personal, financial, and medical records safe.
The organization also recommends signing up for free emergency alerts from your local government, having a backup battery or a way to charge your cell phone, having a battery-powered radio and keeping an eye on weather conditions and fires near you.
For more long-term preparedness, The Red Cross advises creating defensible space means reducing flammable materials (grass, trees, shrubs) within a certain distance of your home.
"By changing how you take care of your home and land, you can reduce the chance of your home catching fire," the organization's website observes.
The agony and loss we see in these disasters, unfortunately, will always exist. But planning for the dangers of our world can help reduce the risks posed by natural disasters.