Without getting into the sad specifics, it only takes a modest familiarity with the news to realize just how important an emergency plan is. Between nature and out fellow man, there is quite a lot for us to be concerned about. Certainly I don't suggest panic, but a good dose of worry seems appropriate right now, translated into positive actions.

Preparedness Fundamentals

The single most important part of putting an emergency plan together is this--making sure everyone concerned is on the same page. Having a check-in point in case of emergency, as an example, can take some of the stress away from not knowing where loved ones are. This check point would be a safe location in the event that you could not go to your home. Good check-in locations are the homes of relatives, friends, or a public safe place like a fire house.

Many people have emergency phone numbers and contact information in their homes, but ironically it's often of no good in an emergency because they can't get to the information. Having such information in multiple locations can save you a great deal of time in an emergency. Among those numbers, a good tip is to also have a few phone cards, just in case the only working phone you have access to is a pay phone.

Natural Disaster Preparedness

If you are out in the middle of nowhere during a tornado, do you know enough to find low ground (such as a ditch) and get out of your car? In an earthquake do you know to get to a doorway, or that often the safest room is the bathroom in the tub? These are little things that can help, and you can do even more by taking a course with the Red Cross where they teach you what to do, and how to react.

One of the first things you should do is prepare an emergency kit, including basic tools, a flashlight, batteries and blankets. Your kit should include medicine that anyone in the family needs. You should also include, ideally, four or five days worth of food and water for everyone in your family, and this includes pets.

Two words often said but not said enough are "don't panic." During an emergency situation, such as a tornado, earthquake or a flood many people who die do so because they lose their heads. You have a mind and a will that can guide you through an emergency, you only have to take a moment to breathe and think.

Terrorism or War?

In the event that we as a nation are attacked it's hard to say exactly what form it could take. That means what you really need is information, which means you need a radio that works even if the power is gone. You should also consult government websites for the latest updates and suggestions for how you can best be prepared.

Here is what you need to remember: We prepare for an emergency but we hope one doesn't happen. Get your supplies and make a plan because you never know what will happen. Don't be hostage to fear. An emergency plan is an example of how you are not powerless, and that if something should happen, you are capable of making a difference in how it turns out.