UNDATED (WOWO): September is National Preparedness month across the country, and after a year of flash floods, strong storms, and massive power outages it’s a good idea to make sure you're ready to go. 

The Indiana Department of Homeland Security is encouraging all Hoosier families to take the time to make sure they are ready in the event of an emergency. John Erickson with the IDHS says Indiana and the United States is unique when it comes to plethora of natural disasters that can happen. 

The department suggests that residents have plenty of supplies on hand—extra food, extra water, extra batteries–things like that. When it comes to water when the power goes out it can be hard to get fresh water; Erickson says 1 gallon of water per person per day for a few days is more than enough. 

The biggest part of surviving or even just coping with an emergency is to have a plan, and one that is practiced and known to everyone in the family. Erickson says that alone can cut down on some of the variables that cause problems in emergency situations. 

The other things the IDHS suggests is to have an out of state contact ready like a relative or friend in case your normal communication gets shut down so they can relay messages to everyone else that you are ok or, in the event of a serious disaster, get you the help you need. 

The department has a long list of tips for families for National Preparedness month at getprepared.in.gov–it walks you through fire safety, severe weather safety, and offers other resources.