Health Watch is a Public Service of the Office of News and Publications and is intended to provide general information only and should not replace the advice of a medical professional. You should contact your physician if you have questions about any of these topics.

We're talking this week on Healthwatch about planning for disaster. As we saw in the aftermath of Hurricane Katrina, it may take days for emergency assistance to reach affected areas as first responders focus on people whose lives are in immediate danger. That means you're your own first responder.

Patrick Tiner, a disaster-response expert at UT Southwestern Medical Center at Dallas, says your family's disaster plan should include supplies in case you're stranded or have to evacuate. You should have a fully stocked first-aid kit, maps, a flashlight and extra batteries in each vehicle. Families with small children may want to include toys and books. You probably shouldn't keep food or water in the car for extended periods of time because of the risk of food poisoning. In cold weather, you should also keep blankets in the car.

Next: What other supplies you should keep handy.

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^{September 2005}

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