DISASTER PLANNING

Disaster supplies, duct tape, andplastic sheeting may seem less thanuseful, but having adequate quantitiesof drinkable water and nonperishablefood on hand can get youthrough an emergency. Other itemsin your disaster kit should be aflashlight, a battery-operated radiowith fresh batteries, a first-aid kit,and any medications or prescriptiondrugs that a family member mightneed. Prudent parents will also postemergency phone numbers near thephone and teach their younger childrenwhen and how to dial 911, andwhat to say. If your home computerhouses your financial records andother crucial data, back them upfrequently on disks and store themoutside your home (eg, in a safetydeposit box).