National Preparedness Month: Pack your emergency kit

National Preparedness Month is a perfect time to check your disaster supply kit to make sure it is stocked with the essentials. It should contain basic items from your home that you may need in the event of an emergency.

Try to put your kit together now — before an emergency. You may have to evacuate at a moment’s notice and take essentials with you. You will probably not have time to search for the supplies you need or shop for them. Include items like water, non-perishable food, a can opener, a crank-powered flashlight, batteries and local maps.

Make sure you have enough essentials to last for at least 72 hours. Also realize you may not be home when a disaster strikes.

You could be at work or in your car. Make sure you have emergency kits in these locations, too. The items in these kits might differ from the ones at your home.

Check out the video below to get extra tips on what you should put in your disaster kits for your car and office: