(NC) By taking a few simple steps today, you can become better prepared to face a range of emergencies — anytime, anywhere. Here is a list of basic supplies to include in your emergency kit:

• Water — two litres per person per day (include small bottles)

• Food that won't spoil, such as canned food, energy bars and dried foods (replace once a year)

• Manual can opener

• Wind-up or battery-powered flashlight (and extra batteries)

• Wind-up or battery-powered radio (and extra batteries)

• First aid kit

• Extra keys for your car and house

• Cash, travellers' cheques and change

• Important family documents such as identification, insurance and bank records • Emergency plan — include a copy in your kit as well as contact information

Consider these additional emergency kit supplies:

• Two additional litres of water per person per day for cooking and cleaning

• Candles and matches or lighter (place in sturdy containers and do not burn unattended)

• Change of clothing and footwear for each household member

• Sleeping bag or warm blanket for each household member

• Toiletries and personal hygiene items

• Hand sanitizer, toilet paper and garbage bags

• Prepaid phone card, mobile phone charger

• Pet food and supplies

• Infant formula, baby food and supplies

• Activities for children like books, puzzles or toys

• Prescription medications and medical equipment

• Utensils, plates and cups

• Household chlorine bleach or water purifying tablets

• Basic tools, like a hammer, pliers, wrench, screwdrivers, work gloves, pocket knife

• Small, fuel-operated stove and fuel

• Whistle (to attract attention)

• Duct tape

Find more steps you can take to make sure you and your family are prepared for emergencies at www.getprepared.ca.

www.newscanada.com