Natural disasters such as hurricanes, earthquakes, floods and wildfires can have devastating effects. Having a solid emergency plan and well-stocked supplies can make a significant difference during times of crisis.

You don’t have to be a devoted prepper -- you know, those people who stockpile food and supplies for doomsday scenarios? -- to get your family ready to face potential emergency situations.

Understanding the best ways to keep your pets safe during a natural disaster is critical for any pet owner, and is well worth the extra effort. One of the most important ways to keep your pets safe is to purchase a carrier that allows you to take them with you in your vehicle. Another easy way to keep your pets safe is always to have an emergency kit nearby that is specifically for pets. Staying prepared in advance is a great way to minimize stress while also maximizing the safety of your pets. A natural disaster can create problems, of course, but remaining prepared is one of the best ways to limit the damage from Mother Nature.

As mid-May arrives, tornado season begins to reach its peak, proving to be a big threat, and nearly every state in the United States can experience a tornado. Having said that, do you know the safest things you can do for you and your family should a tornado strike near your home? Because of that, it’s smart to consider what room may be safest for you, in the event of a tornado. Mobile homes are simply not designed to withstand a tornado or strong winds in severe storms. [WATCH: When you see a tornado while driving, here’s what to do]The time to find shelter is when you are under a tornado warning, so while all of this is helpful information, the best thing you can do is know the signs before a tornado hits.