In my previous post, I discovered how unprepared I am for a disaster, especially an earthquake. I recall when watching the terrible consequences of Katrina that I really should do something, but even that didn't get me moving. It somehow seemed remote—did it to you? I guess I'm a procrastinator to the core.  And I know I'm not alone, according to a recent report by ConsumerAffairs.com , "Though nearly half of Americans say they believe a major natural disaster or terrorist attack is likely to occur in their area in the next five years, a new survey shows more than three quarters admit they are ill-prepared should it occur."

BTW, I did try out that "aluminum foil" blanket I found in my "Disaster Shack" kit with my dog, Gracie. We sat in the garage for a bit—where it was about 40 degrees—and it really did keep me quite warm. I was surprised. Gracie didn't care for the crackling sound it made, and we looked like we were sitting in a Jiffy Pop Popcorn bag—but it worked! I have a feeling we'll learn there are some fairly innovative survival tools  out there.

The American Red Cross' site includes a great tool for getting prepared . They have identified 9 categories of supplies. In the next couple of posts, I'm going to chronicle how long it takes to prepare and what my experience has been through it all. But first, I need to take stock and determine how far off the mark I am.

Recommendations	Shopping List
Water: Store one gallon of water per person per day, keep at least a three-day supply	I have 2 dozen 20 oz. bottles for two, but what about Gracie? I'll count her as 1/2 person (she's 30 pounds). So I need 960 ounces, and I only have 480. I need another 4 one-gallon jugs.
Food: Store at least a three-day supply of non-perishable food.	I had about half the food needed, and not a lot of variety! We're going to grow tired of chili and tuna by the second meal. I'll get two more days of food, with variety, including kibble for Gracie.
Medications: non-prescription meds for children, adults, and prescription drugs	My first aid kit has some aspirin, but looks like I'll need: an additional pair of eyeglasses (good idea!), and extra medications.
Tools and Supplies: This is a big category, everything from mess kits to needles and thread. Check their site for details .	I do have a radio, flashlight, and other supplies listed. I'm short of a lot of stuff here, including mess kits, cash/checks, fire extinguisher, compass, all kinds of things I wouldn't have thought about.
Sanitation: Soap, toilet paper, disinfectant's, etc.	From their detailed list, I'll need to buy: toilet paper, towelettes, soap, liquid detergent, plastic garbage bags and ties, a plastic bucket with tight lid, disinfectant and household chlorine bleach
Clothing and Bedding: "Include at least one complete change of clothing and footwear per person. We suggest long pants and long sleeves for additional protection after a disaster."	I had no clothes at all in my kit, so will need all of it: one change of clothing, sturdy shoes, rain gear, gloves, thermal underwear, and sunglasses. I do have a blanket!
Emergency Car Kit: Battery powered radio, flashlight, blanket, booster cables, fire extinguisher (5 lb., A-B-C type), first aid kit, bottled water and non-perishable high energy foods, maps, shovel, tire repair kit and pump, flares	I hadn't thought of this, but they're right: you could be in your car when a disaster hits. I'll need: a portable radio, fire extinguisher, food, and a shovel... maybe I won't need the shovel, is that for SNOW???
Documents: Will, insurance policies, deeds, stocks/bonds, passports, social security cards, immunization records, bank account numbers, credit card account numbers and companies, inventory of valuable household goods, important telephone numbers, family records (birth, marriage, death certificates)	Hadn't thought of any of this either. Looks like I just need to copy some documents, but then leave them in my shed? Guess it will need a lock.
First Aid: Assemble a first aid kit for your home and one for each car.	Hey, I did it! Each car has a first aid kit (standard), and I have one in the garden shed. Check!