Having the right supplies to keep the family alive is also as important as finding a place to stay safe. When assembling your emergency preparedness supplies, it is imperative to fill it with items that will last the entire family for three days up to two weeks at the least.

The Federal Emergency Management Agency offers the following tips for maintaining an emergency preparedness kit:

*Keep canned foods in a dry place where the temperature is cool.
*Store boxed food in tightly closed plastic or metal containers to protect from pests and to extend its shelf life.
*Throw out any canned good that becomes swollen, dented, or corroded.
*Use foods before they go bad, and replace them with fresh supplies.
*Place new items at the back of the storage area and older ones in the front.
*Change stored food and water supplies every six months. Be sure to write the date you store it on all containers.
*Re-think your needs every year and update your kit as your family needs change.
*Keep items in airtight plastic bags and put your entire disaster supplies kit in one or two easy-to-carry containers, such as an unused trashcan, camping backpack, or duffel bag.