Are you ready for a disaster?

BE SAFE INSTEAD OF SORRY.

With the recent wave of natural disasters and the forecast of more to come, the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) has launched an initiative known as Ready America: Prepare. Plan. Stay Informed.

In the event of a hurricane, flood, tornado, or wildfire, here are some preparedness safety tips.

Get a Kit.
Have food, water, and other supplies in sufficient quantity to last for at least three days.
Have the following, possibly stored in a basement location: battery-powered or hand crank radio and a NOAA Weather Radio, batteries for both, flashlight and extra batteries, first aid kit and book, whistle to signal for help, dust mask, plastic sheeting and duct tape, moist towelettes, garbage bags and plastic ties for personal sanitation, wrench or pliers to turn off utilities, can opener for food, local maps, cell phone with chargers, inverter or solar charger, prescription medications and glasses, formula and diapers for babies as well as pet food, medications, and extra water for your pet; important family documents such as copies of insurance policies, identification and bank account records in a waterproof, portable container, cash or traveler's checks and change, sleeping bag or warm blanket for each person, complete change of clothing including a long sleeved shirt, long pants and sturdy shoes; chlorine bleach for disinfectant or to treat water, and medicine dropper, fire extinguisher, matches in a waterproof container, feminine supplies and personal hygiene items, paper cups, plates and plastic utensils, paper towels, paper and pencil; books, games, puzzles or other activities for children

Make a Plan.
Identify an out-of town contact. Be sure every member of your family knows the phone number and has a cell phone, coins, or a prepaid phone card to call the emergency contact. If you have a cell phone, program that person(s) as "ICE" (In Case of Emergency) in your phone. Subscribe to alert services, a system in many communities that will send instant text alerts or e-mails to let you know about bad weather, road closings, local emergencies, etc.

Be Informed.
"Learn more about the potential emergencies that could happen where you live and the appropriate way to respond to them. In addition, learn about the emergency plans that have been established in your area by your state and local government. Emergency preparedness is no longer the sole concern of earthquake prone Californians and those who live in the part of the country known as 'Tornado Alley.' For Americans, preparedness must now account for man-made disasters as well as natural ones. Knowing what to do during an emergency is an important part of being prepared and may make all the difference when seconds count."

Fore more information, go to http://www.ready.gov/america/index.html.