September is National Preparedness Month

(CANVAS STAFF REPORTS) - From floods, to hurricanes, earthquakes to tornadoes, you never know when nature will unleash its fury. Though many of those natural catastrophes can catch you by surprise, there a few things each of us can do to minimize damage to life and property.

The U.S. Department of Homeland Security's Ready Campaign kicks off National Preparedness Month hoping to raise awareness and promote action by businesses and communities on emergency preparedness.

At www.ready.gov , individuals, families, businesses and even children can find information on how to prepare, plan and stay informed. What can you do to be ready for an emergency? First, assemble a cache of supplies .

This means having enough food, water and necessities on hand should emergency aid workers have difficulty getting to you immediately. Your kit should include things such as:

’ One gallon of water a day, per person, for at least three days.
’ A three-day supply of non-perishable food.
’ Battery-operated or hand-cranked radio.
’ First aid kit.
’ Whistle to signal for help.
’ Flashlight with extra batteries.

Other things might include sleeping bags, important family documents and matches inside a water-proof container.

The website also has useful information on making a plan .

In the heat of the moment, important details can be overlooked. By having a plan in place before disaster strikes, you and your loved ones can react swiftly and calmly, helping to ensure your survival. It's especially important that children know where to go and what to do in case of an emergency.

’ Designate an out-of-town contact so that separated family members can communicate.
’ Be sure that each person knows the phone number and has a cell phone, coins, or a prepaid phone card to call the emergency contact and has an "In Case of Emergency" (ICE) listing in their cell phone address book.
’ Each person should know how to use text messaging.
’ Download a customizable family plan.