IT'S NOT A MATTER OF IF, BUT WHEN.

At some point, you will face a significant emergency or disaster situation.

Will you be ready to make it through and eventually return to some sense of normal?

Emergencies and disasters happen. We generally don't know what will happen, when it will happen or where we will be when it happens. But there are simple things we can do to prepare. Even short-lived power outages and transportation delays can become a crisis if you don't have a plan in place, basic food and comfort supplies handy and access to critical resources. In a large disaster, the things you rely on everyday will be significantly disrupted and help may be weeks away.

• • • Roads and bridges may be damaged and unsafe to use. All transportation (including cars, buses, and trains) could stop. People won’t be able to get anywhere easily.

    • Stores (if opened) will quickly run out of supplies and may only accept cash payments.

    • Utilities (including electricity, water and sewer systems) may be damaged and unavailable for weeks.

    • Without power, gas stations can’t pump gasoline and ATM machines can’t dispense cash.

    • Phones (both home and cell), cable TV and Internet connections may not work. Even texting may be blocked. Batteries used for cell phone, radio and flashlights will quickly die.

    • Hospitals will likely be overwhelmed with injured people.

    • Police, fire and other emergency personnel will be busy with the most urgent life and safety needs.