x
Breaking News
More () »

Planning ahead in the event of a natural disaster

How can you prepare yourself at home or work in the event a tornado strikes with an emergency kit.

TYLER, Texas — A natural disaster can strike at anytime and anywhere. In the event of a severe weather event, preparedness can make a huge difference.

RELATED: What you need to know about Friday's severe weather threat

"We think that everyone should have, set aside, a kit that you can grab and go in a hurry," said Tammy Prater of the American Red Cross said. 

The American Red Cross recommends an emergency kit. 

Here a few items that you can include in your kit:

  • Water: one gallon per person, per day
  • Food: non-perishable food items such as granola bars or easy-to-prepare items. 
  • Flashlights
  • Battery-powered radio
  • Extra batteries
  • First aid kit
  • Blankets
  • Medications (7-day supply) and medical supplies
  • Sanitation and personal hygiene items
  • Misc. items: work gloves, matches, rain gear and towels. 

"Most of these things are in your house," Prater said. "That's why we recommend you have everything close together in a kit where you can grab it in a hurry."

The Red Cross also suggest making a plan with your loved ones on where to meet in the event a disaster hits your area. 

"The main thing is everyone can do this, you just have to plan for it, planning is essential, planning saves lives."

RELATED: EMERGENCY PREPAREDNESS: What to have in case of severe weather emergency

RELATED: TIPS: What to do in case of a tornado

RELATED: WATCH VS. WARNING: Understanding tornado alerts

Before You Leave, Check This Out