When the next disaster strikes, what will you do, whom will you call, where will you go? Emergency help may be unable to reach you. Telephone services could be disrupted or unavailable for a period of time. You could be stranded where you are.

Will you be prepared? You might have to wait until conditions improve in order to get outside help (plan on being self-sufficient for at least three days). Aside from the usual flashlight, radio and batteries, plan on including the following in your disaster kit:

___ First-aid kit
___ Disinfectant/bleach
___ Fire extinguisher
___ Toilet paper/personal hygiene items
___ Over-the-counter and prescription medications
___ Pet food
___ Signal flare
___ Pocket knife
___ Tent or other means of protection from the elements
___ Sleeping bag/heavy blankets
___ Food and drinking water

The illustration shows a recommended disaster kit in a clean, 30-gallon garbage container. Place heavier objects on the bottom and middle layers, and immediate-use items at the top layer of the container. Store water separately. Putting together a disaster kit for your car or office.

For more info on this and other preparedness efforts, call the Monterey Fire Department at 646.3900. Also find out more from the American Red Cross Web site.