• Flooding is only one disaster to be prepared for.Natural disaster image by Tomasz Pawlowski from Fotolia.com
  
  One never knows when or how disaster will strike. FEMA recommends that people be prepared for three different types of disasters. Whether facing earthquakes, flood, forest fire, or other natural disaster, terrorist attack or technological breakdown, it is people's best interest to be prepared. Forethought and planning can help increase chances of survival in these situations.
  
  

Planning

• Work out a disaster plan and gather supplies before disaster strikes. An evacuation route should be mapped out and practiced. Each family member should have a list ofphone numbers for nearby relatives or friends and a list of all family members living inside the home. Know where and how to turn off all major utilities such as natural gas, electricity and water. Be sure to have items such as insurance papers and other important papers in a weather-proof container. Having cash stored with these papers is suggested as well.
  
  Make plans for pets, infants and anyone with special needs. Knowing how to use a fire extinguisher and how to perform CPR can come in handy during an emergency or disaster.
  
  

Supply Box Necessities

• Federal Emergency Management Agency or FEMA recommends that each person to have a supply box for the office, home and the car.
  
  Each kit should be easily accessible. There should be enough food, water and other supplies that might be needed such as pet food or baby formula. There should be enough supplies for three to 14 days. For the car, flares and jumper cables should be included.
  
  

Prepare for Different Types of Disaster

• There are three categories of disaster, according to FEMA. These are natural, terrorist and technological. Natural forms cover twelve different situations including floods, volcanic eruptions and mudslides. Terrorist attacks can include biological warfare, chemical warfare and explosions. Technological disasters can include nuclear power plant meltdowns and hazardous waste spills. Refer to FEMA's website for details on each type of disaster. Knowing what to do ahead of time can save a life. Print out the site's information for reference in time of emergency.