BASIC NEEDS:  portable radio, flashlights, spare batteries, candles, matches or a lighter, wind up or battery alarm clock, moist towelettes/baby wipes, freezer ice packs (keep them in the freezer all the time so they’re ready to use, large cooler or ice chest, sleeping bags or blankets, warm, dry clothing, first aid kit, personal hygiene supplies, baby supplies including diapers.

WATER:  If you know a storm with the potential to cause outages is coming, fill containers with water, including your bathtub.  Separate water for drinking from that for other uses.  Flush toilets sparingly with a bucket of water.

FOOD:  Plan on a 3 to 5 day supply for each member of the family, including your pets.  This can include:  canned or freeze-dried meats, vegetables and fruits, instant foods, foil pouch products, and pet foods.

     Lastly, the following can make life easier without power:  manual an opener, disposable plates, cups and eating utensils, a camp stove and fuel.

     More information on readiness is available on the FEMA website at www.fema.gov; and the NH website in the emergency management section at  http://www.nh.gov/safety/divisions/bem/

     You can also visit the federal government's emergency-preparedness website www.ready.gov , which has a wide variety of resources, including Checklists, Communication Plans, Children's Website, more Emergency Kit Ideas, Information for Special Needs Populations, and Caring for Pets in a Disaster.