Whether it's an earthquake, fire or flood, you need to be ready to go it alone for at least 3 days following a disaster.

That means fresh water (a gallon a day per person), food (canned and dried foods that are easy to store and prepare), and clothing (to keep you warm and dry).

Experts say you should have two emergency kits. The first one is to use if you stay where you are. The other should be a smaller, lightweight version that you can take with you if you need to leave. Now is the time to put together those emergency kits.

Include a first aid kit, flashlight, battery-powered radio and fresh batteries. You want a whistle to signal for help and baby wipes to keep clean. Remember prescription drugs, a pocket knife, manual can opener, duct tape and heavyweight garbage bags. Pets will need food and medicine and a leash.

I have $100 in my kit. In a major disaster, cash machines may not work.

WHAT ABOUT YOUR CELL PHONE?

Cell phones are great in an emergency, as long as you can keep them charged. What are you going to do if you're stuck at home and the power's out? Do you have a power cord that let's you plug into your car's utility outlet? That's how I kept my phone charged.

You can also buy a little gadget that can bail you out in an emergency. The Crank Light by Affinity (about $15) is about the size of a garage door opener.

Just crank the handle to charge you cell phone. The device comes with various cell phone adapters. It's also a flashlight.

One minute of cranking gives you about 20 minutes of light. The Crank Light uses LED lights, so they never need replacing. For more information: www.affinityproducts.com

Energizer makes the Energi To Go (about $20) instant cell phone charger. This little device takes the power from AA batteries and transfers it to most Motorola models. The company says two AA batteries will give you up to 9 hours with a GSM phone and up to 3 hours on a CDMA phone. You'll find more information at www.energitogo.com

For More Information:

www.ready.gov

American Red Cross Disaster Supplies Kit