How to Prepare

Preparing correctly entirely depends on your knowledge of your needs in case of an emergency. Fortunately, a quick and simple website is available for all of us to learn and understand the basics that we need to store for an emergency: www.ready.gov

The three basics on being prepared are:

• Have a survival kit.
• Make a plan.
• Be informed.

What do I need in a kit?

• Water (1 gallon per person, at least three days worth. A water purification unit is also great to have.)
• Food (3 day supply of non-perishable food. This can be MREs or food bars.)
  
• Hand crank or battery powered radio and NOAA radio with emergency tone (Have extra batteries.)
• Hand crank flashlight (If a hand crank isn't readily available, a battery powered flashlight with extra batteries will suffice.)
• First aid kit
  
• Whistle (This is to signal for help if needed.)
• Dust mask
• Moist towelettes, trash bags, and plastic ties
• Personal hygiene products
  
• Can opener if needed
• Local maps
  
• Cell phone charger (Hand crank or solar is recommended.)
• Medications and prescriptions
  

This list is a just a rundown of the basics you would need in an emergency. Be sure to analyze your situation and think about anything else you might need. Don't forget your pets!

Check out www.ready.gov for more information on planning and preparing. They offer great advice on making a disaster plan.

Don't forget to stay informed. Watch local and national news. Learn what disaster plans are in place in your city, and contact your local Community Emergency Response Team (CERT).

Always remember, failing to prepare is preparing to fail.