Items to include:

• Emergency telephone numbers
• Flashlights and fresh batteries
• Battery-powered radio
• Supply of bottled water (one gallon per person, per day - and don't forget water for your pets)
• Non-perishable foods that don't require heating
• Paper plates and plastic utensils
• Hand-operated can opener
• First-aid kit and medications
• Ice cooler for temporary food or medication storage
• Blankets, bedding or sleeping bags
• Battery-powered or wind-up alarm clock
• Special items for infants, the elderly or family members with special needs
• Identification and copies of important family documents
• Small bills and change

Indoors:

• Turn your refrigerator to its coldest setting and leave the refrigerator closed.
• Turn off and unplug any unnecessary electrical equipment.
• Place important documents in a safe box or other waterproof storage space.
• Register your electrically operated medical equipment with Ameren.
• Make sure your storm kit is ready.

Outdoors:

• Make sure your vehicle's gas tank is full.
• Bring lawn furniture and other lightweight objects inside.
• If you have a swimming pool, turn off all pumps and filters and wrap them in waterproof materials.
• Insulate or cover water lines, hose bibs, etc. in cold weather.

For your employees and co-workers:

• Develop, post and review emergency plans, including evacuation routes.
• Designate safe areas where employees should go during a storm.
• Create a communication plan with your employees, including pre-arranged meeting points in case of telephone or cell phone outages.
• Establish procedures for warning your employees of severe weather.

For your facility:

• Make multiple back-ups to computer files and data. Store these records in a safe place.
• Turn off all computers and unplug all lamps, radios and equipment in case of a power surge.
• Prepare for your short-term and long-term energy needs. Consider installing a generator if necessary.
• If available, park your vehicles in safe, protected areas, such as a covered garage.
• Be sure electronic devices have battery backup.
• Lock drawers and file cabinets.
• Check first aid kits to make sure all supplies are stocked.