Most people don’t take the time to create a plan for disasters that may occur. Here in Georgia, tornadoes are most frequent in the spring and fall off in the . It’s important for everyone to prepare for any disasters and pay attention to any storm warnings. Jeff Taylor, the Executive Director of the East Georgia Red Cross says it’s crucial to not wait.

“Do it now,” Taylor said. “On a beautiful sunny day, make a plan, make a kit, be informed.”

The Red Cross website gives you step by step instructions on how to prepare for a disaster. The first step is making an emergency kit. Your kit should include supplies like water, nonperishable food, first aid items, a blanket, batteries, a flash light, and a phone charger.

Along with other basic supplies for your kit, make sure to include a paper copy of emergency contacts. It’s also beneficial to have an additional kit in the tuck of your car. If you have a smart phone, the American Red Cross has a few different apps to help keep you prepared and aware of any weather warnings.

The Red Cross Tornado app will sound if there’s a storm warning or alert in your area. Based off your location, it will also show you close by shelters. In the case of a disaster you can preprogram the app so that it will send a text out to family and friends letting them know you are okay.

“We can live in benign neglect, but at the end of the day, if you’re not ready, then you’re not prepared,” Taylor said.

To find out more information about how to create your disaster plan, visit redcross.org. You can download any of the Red Cross apps for free to any iPhone or android.