In today's world climate, it's more important than ever to be prepared for emergencies of all types. Each day the U.S. government issues a terrorism alert level. We continue to hear from our national politicians that when it comes to terrorism, it's not a matter of if, but when and where the next act will occur.

We like to think our town would never be directly touched by such a disaster. However, living in a metropolitan region as we do, the possibility of a future incident, although unlikely, is still real. So, if something were to happen, are you prepared for the unexpected? I would think that most of us would say “no.”

Taking the time to create a family disaster plan now makes sense for many, many good reasons. At the very least, it will help reduce the stress that you or your family members may have now or later if anything should arise.

The American Red Cross has informational brochures that give clear and precise points on how to set up a family disaster plan. It's not hard, and it does not take much time to do. Below are some highlights of what you should consider when developing a plan.

Create an emergency communications plan

Choose an out-of-town contact that your family members can use as a single source of contact and check in with.

Your contact should live far away.

Family members should have the chosen contact's home phone and cell phone number along with e-mail address.

It is recommended to leave this information at your children's school and at your workplace.

Most people flood the phone system in emergencies and can not get through; sometimes e-mails can get through when calls don't.

Establish a meeting place

Have a predetermined meeting place away from your home.

Who will pick up the children at daycare or school?

Include the family pet in your plans, most shelters and some hotels will not accept pets.

Assemble a disaster supply kit

Make a supply kit in an easy to carry container such as a duffel bag or small plastic trash can.

Remember “special needs” items such as infant formula, prescription drugs, etc.

Include a change of clothing for each person and a sleeping bag.

Include a battery powered radio along with extra batteries, food, bottled water, and tools. It is also a good idea to include cash and copies of important documents (birth certificates, passports, and licenses.)

Check on school emergency plans

You need to know the school's policy and procedures. Will children need to be picked up or will they be sent home (school bus or walk)?

Make sure your child's school has updated information about how to reach parents and designated others to arrange for a pickup.

Remember that during times of emergency, the school may be overwhelmed with phone calls.

In our daily lives, our family members are normally spread out all over the place because of school, employment and social schedules. A family could be anywhere if a problem occurred.

Families can cope with disasters and ease anxieties by taking the time to prepare in advance and working together as a team.

There is a wealth of information about emergency preparedness that can be found on the American Red Cross web site at www.redcross.org, or by calling the local Red Cross chapter at 412-263-3100.

The very best protection you can have is knowing what to do and how to react in times of trouble, it is your responsibility. It is worth the time to set up a plan just in case.