The need to prepare is real. We face the possibility of many natural disasters, and more than any other time in American history, the threat of man-made disasters or terrorism. Neither man-made nor natural disasters can be predicted, therefore, it is imperative that you prepare well in advance of being faced with such situations.

- Disasters disrupt hundreds of thousands of lives every year. Each disaster has lasting effects, both to people and property.

- If a disaster occurs in your community, local government and disaster-relief organizations will try to help you, but you need to be ready as well. Local responders may not be able to reach you immediately, or they may need to focus their efforts elsewhere.

- You should know how to respond to severe weather or any disaster that could occur in your area - hurricanes, earthquakes, extreme cold, flooding, or terrorism. You should also be ready to be self-sufficient for AT LEAST three days. This may mean providing for your own shelter, first aid, food, water, and other essentials.

It is important to have an emergency plan and procedures in place - ready to be implemented - for your home, office, school, vehicle, etc. All of your family members should be aware of these procedures and should be able to easily access emergency supplies and equipment. Experts anticipate that individuals who take disaster preparedness seriously, will be equipped to deal with any emergency situation better than those who fail to impliment emergency plans and procedures - before natural or man-made disasters occur.