The crisis in Japan is heart wrenching and hard to fathom. It's been said that this will be one of the most closely examined disasters in history. The lessons learned will help generations for years to come. But what can you do today to prepare your business and family for a large scale event?

Simply put, prepare to go it alone for the first 72 hours.

FEMA recommends to be prepared with adequate supplies for the critical first 72 hours after a disaster. This includes operating under the assumption that utilities (phone, electricity, gas) as well as public safety (police and fire departments) may be unavailable. The following items should be included in a 72 hour "go bag" or kit:

• Clothing: Each person should have two sets of clothes.
• First Aid: You should have a fully stocked First Aid Kitand include any over the counter medications.
• Water: Water is critical. Each person should have a minimum of one gallon per day.
• Food: Pack high energy food bars and other non-perishable high energy snacks. This will help both the physical and mental aspects of a disaster.
• Medication: You should have a three, or preferably 10 day supply of any prescription medications.
• Important Documents: Insurance policies, contracts, wills, deeds, titles, and medical prescriptions in a waterproof pouch.
• Money: You should have at least $250.00 in cash. Power failures will disable ATM's and most credit card machines.
• Misc: Extra blankets, hygiene products, N95 respirator masks, misc tools, flashlight, extra batteries and radio are all great things to have.