Are you ready for Frankenstorm?

Normally I don't get worked up or worried about storms but maybe since I am older and have two precious kids I get a bit more cautious. I am sure by now you have heard about this Frankenstorm, Megastorm or whatever they are calling it now. If not there is a Hurricane called Sandy that is expected to impact the eastern coast of the United States and parts of Ontario, Quebec and the Maritimes over the next few days. The storm covers a wide area and the impacts of heavy rainfall, high winds and possibly snow may be experienced well away from the center of the storm.

What does that mean for the Ottawa area? We will likely have high winds which will have us sitting by candle light I am sure (we had two power outages over the summer due to wind and rain), fallen trees (hope our HUGE old Maple stays standing), and maybe even flooding (not sure I am ready for that, maybe we will float away somewhere nice and warm though).

The Red Cross is urging Canadians to be prepared and have an emergency kit ready just in case.

What should be included in the emergency kit?

Water: Store two litres of drinking water and two litres of water for washing per person, per day, keeping a 72-hour supply on hand for your family and any pets.
Food: Store at least a 72-hour supply of non-perishable food for each person. Ensure that there is enough for each member of your family.
Manual can opener
Crank or battery-operated flashlight, with extra batteries
Crank or battery-operated radio, with extra batteries
Extra keys, for house and car
First aid kit
Cash in small bills
Special needs items - medications, baby formula and diapers, and equipment for people with disabilities.