Somerdale, NJ -- (SBWIRE) -- 01/29/2010 -- Natural disasters are unpredictable, and their aftermaths can be devastating. Although we can never predict when a disaster will strike, experts say being prepared can prevent a disaster from becoming a catastrophe.

“The aftermath of the Haiti earthquake is an example of immeasurable human suffering. However, a disaster doesn't have to turn into a catastrophe,” says Dean Ragone, president of allRisk Property Damage Experts, a Somerdale, NJ-based emergency response company.

A disaster can be natural or man-made. It can range from severe weather, flooding or a chemical spill. Being prepared can reduce the damages and save lives, but many people don't take this precaution.

In response to the Haiti earthquake, a California emergency response employee was giving advice on preparedness to 200 Los Angeles residents. When he asked how many in the audience had a disaster kit, only three responded positively, according to a report in the Los Angeles Times.

"Creating a disaster kit is something we keep in the back of our mind but somehow never quite get around to preparing," says Ragone. "The events in Haiti should be a wakeup call for everyone."

Hurricane Katrina is an example. The governor of Louisiana declared a state of emergency on Friday, Aug. 26, 2005. National Guard troops did not arrive in the Gulf States until Aug. 31 — two days after they were requested and five days after the Louisiana announcement. "We should have faith in our government, but we should begin by making our own preparations," Ragone said.

“In a full-scale emergency, first responders may not be able to get to your family in the early hours. Simply put, you need to be your family’s own first responder.”

Ragone and emergency response experts agree that having a disaster kit in every home helps reduce the possibility of damages, injury and even death. Kits should include a minimum of a three-day supply of items.

Recommended items in a basic disaster kit include:

- One gallon of water per person per day for at least three days, for drinking and sanitation.
- Canned food, at least a three-day supply.
- Baby care items - diapers, formula, bottles (if applicable)
- Battery-powered or hand crank radio.
- Flashlight.
- First aid kit, including all prescription medications.
- Whistle to signal for help.
- Dust mask, to help filter contaminated air, and plastic sheeting and duct tape to shelter-in-place.
- Moist towelettes, garbage bags and plastic ties for personal sanitation.
- Wrench or pliers to turn off utilities.
- Can opener for food (if kit contains canned food).
- Local maps.
- Cell phone with chargers.
- Extra batteries for all battery-powered devices, in a variety of types.
- Crowbar (for opening doors of sagging lintels during an earthquake).

Kits should also include important documents such as medical records and homeowner's insurance, as well as travelers checks, credit cards or cash.
“Our lessons of the past taught us, it is your responsibility to prepare and ensure the survival of your family in the first 72 hours following a catastrophic event,” says Ragone.

With these tips to create a disaster kit, residents can at least manage temporarily until help arrives.

For more information, visit http://www.TeamAllRisk.com, and http://www.ready.gov/america/getakit.