WASHINGTON, Jan. 3 (UPI) -- The Federal Emergency Management Agency advises every U.S. home should have an emergency supply kit ready and January is a good time to get it together.
FEMA's website, Ready.gov, advises people to get an emergency supply kit, make a family emergency plan and be informed about different types of emergencies that could occur and their appropriate responses.
All Americans should have some basic supplies on hand to survive for at least three days if an emergency occurs. FEMA officials said a Basic Emergency Supply Kit should include:
-- Water, one gallon of water per person per day for at least three days for drinking and sanitation.
-- Food, at least a three-day supply of non-perishable food.
-- Battery-powered or hand crank radio and a NOAA Weather Radio with tone alert and extra batteries for both.
-- Flashlight and extra batteries.
-- First aid kit.
-- Whistle to signal for help.
-- Dust mask, to help filter contaminated air and plastic sheeting and duct tape to secure windows and doors in the event of chemical, biological or radiological contaminants released into the environment.
-- Moist towelettes, garbage bags and plastic ties for personal sanitation.
-- Wrench or pliers to turn off utilities.
-- Can opener for food if kit contains canned food.
