A safety question sparked by the Japanese tragedy: Are you prepared?

The unfolding tragedy in Japan is a disaster of unprecedented magnitude and our hearts go out to the Japanese people as they struggle with survival. It is also a lesson in emergency preparedness for all of us.

Are you prepared for an emergency?

Whether it is a hurricane, tornado, flood, fire or blinding snowstorm, most parts of the United States have the potential for some form of natural disaster. The Red Cross suggests that you do three things:

1. Get a kit
2. Make a plan
3. Be informed

Get a kit

The kit should include water, food, flashlight, battery powered or hand-crank radio, extra batteries, first aid kit, sanitation and personal hygiene items, copies of critical personal documents (e.g. medical information, passport, deed to home, etc.) cell phone and chargers, contact information, extra cash, blankets and maps of the area. Depending upon your circumstances and location, it may be advisable to supplement your kit with other items.

Make a plan

1. Meet with family/household members.

2. Discuss preparation and response to possible emergencies.

3. Identify responsibilities for each member of the household. If one member is in the military, what will you do if they are deployed.

4. Choose where to meet in case of sudden emergency such as a fire. Someplace close to home or your neighborhood.

5. Decide on an out-of-area emergency contact person whom you can contact if local phone service is out. Make sure everyone has emergency contact information programmed into their phone.

6. Determine how and where you would go in case you have to evacuate.

Be informed

1. Determine what disasters or emergencies could occur in your area.

2. Identify how authorities will notify citizens in the event of a disaster.

3. Know the difference between weather watches and warnings.

4. Tailor your plans to what could occur.

5. Consider how to handle someone who may be injured or in need of medical assistance if emergency response is delayed.

6. Share your thoughts and ideas with family, friends and neighbors.

Lastly, a free emergency contact card is available at the American Red Cross website.

This is the perfect time to demonstrate your love and concern for the health and well-being of your family, demonstrating that safety is truly a 24-7 value. Be prepared.