After a disaster, local officials and relief workers will be on the scene, but they cannot reach everyone immediately. You could get help in hours, or it may take days. You and your family will cope best by preparing for disaster before it strikes. To complete proper evacuation planning one needs to assemble a DISASTER SUPPLY KIT. Once disaster hits, you wonąt have time to shop or search for supplies. Therefore, one needs to gather supplies in advance. Here are just a few suggestions: THE KIT Establish a checklist. Gather supplies that are listed. You may need many basic supplies for your family if confined to your home or asked to evacuate immediately. Place the supplies in an easy-to-carry container that is stored in a readily accessible location. Water: Store water in sealed plastic containers such as soft drink bottles - avoid using containers that will decompose or break. A normal active person needs to drink at lease two (2) quarts each day. Hot environments and physical activity can double the amount of water needed. Store one (1) gallon of water per person per day. Keep at least a three (3) day supply. Food: Store non-perishable foods. Select foods that require no refrigeration, preparation or cooking and use little water. Select food items that are com pact and lightweight. High-energy foods like peanut butter, jelly and granola bars. Ready-to-eat canned foods, meats, fruits and vegetables. Canned juices, milk or soup. Flashlights with extra batteries. Battery operated radio, TV or NOAA Weather Radio. First Aid Kit: Assemble one first aid kit for your home and one for each car. Make sure that the kit contains essential medicines, bandages, cleansing agents and an assortment of other First Aid essentials. Tools/Supplies: Assemble a tool and supply kit that contains basic tools, tape, compass, matches, sanitation, clothing and bedding. Herbie Hydrant says get started and create A FAMILY DISASTER PLAN and SUPPLY KIT. Contact your local emergency management or civil defense office or a local chapter of a non-for-profit emergency assistance organization for pertinent information. Find out which disasters are most likely to happen in your community ask how you would be warned. Find out how to prepare for all types of disasters. Ask for community sponsored information pamphlets. Many are free or available at the public library. Meet with your family. Discuss the types of disasters that could occur in your home or community. Explain how to prepare and respond properly. Discuss what to do if advised to evacuate and above all PLAN, PREPARE, AND PRACTICE, PRACTICE, PRACTICE.