Make an emergency kit at home
Most Americans unprepared for a disaster

The recent southern California wildfires caused one of the largest evacuations in the state's history. A 2007 survey shows that even with a history of natural disasters, Americans aren't ready for the next big one.

According to the American Red Cross, the majority of Americans remain unprepared for a disaster - 23 percent have not taken any measures to prepare for a catastrophe, and only four percent have taken all the recommended preparedness actions.

The American Red Cross of Greater Los Angeles offers the following steps to prepare for most emergencies, including wildfires, home fires and earthquakes.

Get or make a kit: A wellprepared emergency kit should have supplies for three to five days and include the items listed below. Additionally, kits should be easy to carry and checked every six months.

•At least one gallon of water per day per person

•Nonperishable, high protein foods such as energy bars, ready-to-eat soup and peanut butter

•Flashlight with extra batteries

•First aid kit with a reference guide

•A supply prescription and nonprescription household medications

•Cash, because ATMs and credit cards may not work due to power loss

•A list of family phone numbers

Make a plan: Emergencies can happen at any time, and they do not always happen when families are at home together. Take time to:

•Prepare emergency plans in advance

•Choose places to meet after a disaster (no more than two)

•Plan for emergency scenarios when family members are at work or school

•Practice home evacuation plans twice a year

•Ensure each adult in the household learns how and when to turn off utilities, such as electricity, water and gas

Get informed: By staying informed about the risks of disasters, one will become better prepared for the next emergency situation.

•Learn what disasters or emergencies may occur while at work, home or school

•Discuss types of emergencies with family, and establish responsibilities for each person

•Know how local authorities will notify the public during a disaster and how to get important information

•Contact the local American Red Cross chapter about first aid and disaster training classes

For more information about disaster preparedness, visit www.RedCrossLA.org.