Electrical sparks may ignite a number of things following a natural disaster. This is why, in an emergency, the electricity will likely need to be shut off immediately. If your home has a basement, the electrical circuit box is generally located there, but that's not always the case. Be sure that everyone in your home knows where the circuit box is, well in advance of an emergency.

If you need help identifying the circuit box, or just feel uncomfortable about the process, contact a qualified electrician for help. Typically, to turn off the electricity, you simply flip the "main" circuit breaker located inside the electrical panel (usually at the top), says FEMA.

Knowing how to locate and turn off the utilities in your home well in advance of an emergency is a good step toward disaster preparedness. (You should also have a plan on how to get by without utility service.) And while these tips can't do anything to prevent natural disasters or emergencies, they may help prevent them from getting worse.