As published in the Belleville News-Democrat on September 21, 2006.

September is National Preparedness Month and the American Red Cross is supporting a new program called Be Red Cross Ready.

As part of the program, the Red Cross encourages the public to get an emergency preparedness kit.

This kit should have three days of supplies and should be checked every six months.

Kits should include the following:

• Water - one gallon per person, per day.
• Food - pack nonperishable items that don't require cooking.
• Flashlight - hand-crank options are available. Include extra batteries if applicable.
• First Aid Kit - include a first aid reference guide.
• Medication - pack prescription and nonprescription items.
• Radio - include extra batteries.
• Tools - wrench, manual can opener, screwdriver, hammer, pliers, knife, duct tape, plastic sheeting and garbage bags.
• Clothing - provide a change of clothes for everyone.
• Personal Items - copies of important papers, including insurance policies and birth certificates.
• Money - ATMs won't work if the power is out.
• Contact Information - carry a current list of family phone numbers and e-mail addresses.
• Pet Supplies - include food and water.
• Map - mark an evacuation route from your neighborhood.