One of the best things you and your family can do today to be prepared before a disaster or emergency strikes is to build an emergency kit.

First, you’ll need something to keep everything in. An easy to lift plastic container will do. Your bag should hold supplies for 72 hours.

Next, we’ll need the essentials, like three gallons of water – one for each day, cash, a portable cell phone charger, a first aid kit. A flashlight and extra batteries, non-perishable food, and a three day supply of your prescription medicines.

Now let’s pack the useful things, like sturdy, closed-toed shoes, a battery operated radio, and various tools in case you need to board up your home or turn off utilities.

And lastly, let’s grab some personal items, like hygiene products, and personal documents, like identification forms, insurance policies, and prescription scripts, which should be placed in a plastic bag.

Remember to make extra considerations if you have small children or pets. Pets need food, water, and their medicine for three full days, and kids could use toys and board games.

Be ready to respond to any kind of emergency by having an emergency kit ready before disaster strikes. To find more information on how to build an emergency kit, visit ReadySouthTexas.gov

For more information on emergency preparedness, visit ReadySouthTexas.org