While many of us don't like to think about it, we all need to make sure our families are prepared in case of an emergency.  In addition to the "normal" weather emergencies, we also must be prepared for those man-made emergencies we've come to experience over the last few years.  Because terrorism has become a reality, it is incumbent on us to have our families prepared, before an attack.

In an effort to assist in evaluating your family's state of readiness, we've gathered a number of resources to assist you.

What do you need to be prepared?

Know the Homeland Security Advisory System instituted in March 2002. There are five Threat Conditions, each identified by a description and corresponding color:

• Low = Green
  
• Guarded = Blue
  
• Elevated = Yellow
  
• High = Orange
  
• Severe = Red.
  

An Emergency Readiness Kit, which should include:

• One gallon of water per day per person
  
• Non-perishable food items
  
• Canned goods
  
• Portable heater
  
• Portable generator
  
• First Aid kit
  
• Prescription medications
  
• Battery powered or hand crank radio
  
• Battery powered flashlight
  
• Extra batteries
  
• Candles and matches
  
• Can opener
  
• Extra cash
  
• More…