It’s not too late to make a resolution for 2014, and the Illinois Emergency Management Agency has a suggested resolution that will help you and your family stay safe when disaster strikes – resolve to be better prepared for emergencies this year.

The agency will make keeping this resolution easier by offering information and tips on preparedness and safety topics each month in 2014.

The IEMA will focus on a different preparedness or safety topic each month, such as earthquakes, severe and winter weather, pets, school and campus, cyber security and more.

One of the first steps toward emergency preparedness is an emergency supply kit stocked with basic survival items that are critical during an emergency, such as:

•One gallon of water per person per day (minimum of a three-day supply)

•At least a three-day supply of non-perishable food

•First-aid kit

•Battery-operated radio, flashlight and extra batteries

•Items for children, seniors, pets and household members with health or medical needs.

The IEMA maintains the Ready Illinois website (www.Ready.Illinois.gov), a one-stop shop for preparedness information for a variety of hazards. In addition to information about steps people can take before emergencies happen, the Ready Illinois website also provides guidance on what to do during and after a disaster. The Ready Illinois site also provides situational updates and links to information on road conditions and closures, shelter locations and more during major disasters.

Information is also available through the Ready Illinois Facebook and Twitter pages.