Following an emergency, it can take days before emergency workers are able to reach you and your family. The best way to plan for emergencies is to prepare a disaster supply kit. Once the event occurs, there will not be time to shop or search for supplies.

Before getting your kit together, be sure you have enough supplies for at least three days. Think about the basics of survival: fresh water, food, clean air, and warmth. You should consider making two kits. In one, put everything needed to stay where you are. The other should be a lightweight, smaller version you can take with you should evacuation occur.

Here is a short list of essential items to help you get started: