Take the time to think about your daily activities and unique needs. What can you do now to ensure you are able to respond to emergencies and recover from a disaster that disrupts your normal routine for days or weeks at a time?

Personal preparedness starts with knowing the hazards that threaten your community, and how to lessen their impacts. It also requires you have essential emergency supplies on hand - for your home, workplace, and vehicle. You probably already have most of these items and just need to gather them in a centralized location. Your emergency kit should include (at a minimum) the following items:

Water

• 1 gallon per person per day (for drinking, washing, cooking)

Food

• Non-perishable, ready to eat food
• Select items you like to eat
• Monitor expiration dates and replace as needed 

First Aid supplies

• Bandages, antiseptic wipes, gauze pads, scissors, tweezers, and pain-relief medication
• Prescriptions and personal medical equipment

Electronics

• Light sources that are hand-cranked or battery powered
• Portable radio and extra batteries (a great way to stay informed)
• Alternate means to charge your phone or computer 

Clothing

• At least one extra pair of warm clothing
• Rainproof outer clothing and boots to keep you dry
• Comfortable, sturdy shoes in case you need to walk long distances

Don't forget the needs of your pets too!

Disasters can happen when you are not with your loved ones. It is important for your family to discuss how to contact one another, reunite, and respond during different situations. A good family emergency plan should include:

• A home meeting spot
• An out-of-area contact
• Public safety phone numbers for your area (police, fire, hospital)
• Reunification location, if you can’t make it to your home

Each family member should keep personal and emergency phone numbers in a safe place, such as your wallet or emergency kit. They should also know alternative methods for contacting each other if phone lines are down, and for traveling to your reunification location. Deciding these details in advance will help make you calmer during a disaster.

Don't forget the needs of your pets too!

If your family includes children, involve them in your planning and teach them about potential disasters. Empower your children to take appropriate actions to remain safe during a specific emergency. Teach them who to call when they need help, and where to go if they aren’t able to make it home.

Sometimes disasters can impact your home. Preparing the area where you live helps keep you safe and will minimize damage to your property. There are several ways you can prepare your home: 

• Secure cabinets and wall hangings
• Learn how to turn off utilities
• Secure your water heater
• Secure hazardous materials
• Talk to your insurance provider to learn what hazards are covered under your policy