Join the nationwide effort with these simple steps

National Preparedness Month asks employers, families and community residents to take three steps that can make a critical difference in smooth recovery from an emergency situation. Before disaster strikes:

• Get a Kit. Create an emergency supply kit with fresh water, food, a flashlight with extra batteries and other survival essentials. For a checklist, visit the Department of Homeland Security.
• Make a Plan. Decide in advance how you and your family or coworkers will contact one another and what you will do in different situations. Read more here.
• Be Informed. Learn about the potential emergencies that can happen where you live (such as earthquakes, hurricanes or man-made disasters). Find resources here.

Find more National Preparedness Month tips here to help you secure a safe shelter and conduct other key preparedness activities.

Remember, the best thing you can do during an emergency is listen to messages from your local emergency managers, broadcast on radio or television, who will recommend ways to protect yourself and your family.