ADAMS COUNTY, ILL. -- When you change your clocks twice a year, you know you're also supposed to change the batteries in your smoke detectors and carbon monoxide alarms.
Did you also know it's a good time to re-evaluate your family's emergency preparedness kit?
Being prepared now could save your life when the time comes.
This table of supplies is enough to get you prepared for any type of emergency.
"You need to have water, one gallon of water per day per person. We encourage you to have a three day supply," says Pam Shaffer with the American Red Cross.
That's the same way with food and batteries, but don't forget to be prepared if you take any kind of medicine.
"You should have at least a week's worth of medication in your supply kit...just in case you can't get back into your house," says Shaffer.
And if the power is out, you may not have access to your pharmacy. It's also a good idea to have some cash in your supply kit. Banks may not be open, ATMs may not work. Here's something you may not have thought of.
"Have a utility bill with you, have a copy of your driver's license," says Shaffer.
Something to prove you're you and something to prove where you live. Also remember your kit should be specific to your family. Don't forget formula for a baby, food for a pet, or anything you may need for someone in your house who has special needs. And where do you keep this kit?
"We encourage people to keep it right close to the door, so if someone comes knocking on your door in the middle of the night saying you have to evacuate, you are ready to go," says Shaffer.
It's also a good idea with winter coming to have an emergency kit in your car. Keep blankets, food, water, matches, flashlights, a shovel, bucket, and a first aid kit. It's also a good idea to learn CPR and first aid, so if you need it, you'll be able to use it.
You can get more information on being prepared at www.ready.gov or www.redcross.org.
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