Would your family be prepared to respond? Disasters can happen anytime, anywhere and when a disaster strikes you may not have much time to respond. Prepare before disaster strikes by having a disaster supply kit. There are six basics you should stock in your home: 1) Water, 2) food, 3) first aid supplies, 4) clothing and bedding, 5) emergency supplies including tools, and 6) special items such as medications. Keep the items you would most likely need in a easy-to-carry container. The container can be a covered trash container, backpack, or duffle bag. Suggested items: Gallon of water per person in a plastic container. A selection of ready-to-eat food, canned foods and juices. Foods for infants, if any. High energy foods. Sanitation kit. Personal hygiene items. First aid kit. Games for kids and adults. Special medications. Aspirin. Anti-diarrhea and antacid. Syrup of Ipecac. Laxative. Some bedding. Change of clothing (dress for the season). Cash, traveler's checks or change. Radio. Flashlights and batteries. Mess kits, or plastic utensils, cups, and plates. Rain gear If you use a backpack for the 72 hour kit, it is suggested that you have one for each member of the family. To get started: 1. Find a source for information for emergency preparedness such as the Red Cross. Online resources can help you learn about: 10. Disasters most likely to happen in this area, such as flooding. 11. How you could expect to be notified in case of a disaster. 12. How to prepare for the disasters. 2. Meet with your family: 13. Discuss the potential disasters, such as flooding, and your preparation and response. 14. Discuss how to respond to an evacuation order, and know your family rally point. 15. Practice your plan. 3. Plan how to stay in contact with your family, your rally-point: In case of a evacuation order there will be community evacuation centers established and likely operated by the Red Cross. In smaller disasters that may only affect a family or two your family should set its own rally-points. Pick at least two locations at a safe distance from your home where your family should gather in an emergency. Pick a place outside your neighborhood in case you cannot return home. Have an out-of-state or area contact for "check-in" calls for family members who cannot be immediately reached. 4. Complete these steps: Post emergency numbers by each phone. Responsible family members need to learn how and when to shut off gas, electric, and water. Have working smoke detectors in house, and mitigate fire hazards in your home. Learn CPR and first aid. You can pick up a more detailed pamphlet from your city office.