Are you ready for a disaster?

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MPR file photo

There’s been a steady stream of press releases to the newsroom and tweets from emergency preparedness and response agencies the past few days.  That's apparently because September is National Preparedness Month.

Which begs the question: how many people are prepared for a few days without basic services?

A survey a couple of years ago by the National Center for Disaster Preparedness, found most Americans aren't prepared for disaster.

“One half of American families still do not have a plan and 30% of those with plans still lack a critical item such as a flashlight or emergency food and water,” according to the center.

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The survey also found most people believe government will quickly come to their aid in a disaster.

A few things to consider. How prepared are you?

If your electricity was out for several days what would you eat?  Do you have a three-day supply of water and food stashed somewhere? That’s a minimum recommendation from disaster preparedness experts.  Can you quickly find basic supplies like flashlights, and a first aid kit? Could you stay warm during a winter disaster?

Share your disaster plan.