PARIS – According to Scott Parker, director of Oxford County Emergency Management Agency, each family should have a plan for disasters. Emergency numbers should be posted by every phone, and family members should know how to turn off water, gas, electricity and water at main switches.

Parents should teach children how to call 911, fire and police. If the family is separated, choose a location where people can meet and also select an out-of-state friend as a contact for the family to call. Keep family records in fire- and water-proof containers. For more tips, contact the agency at 743-6336.

There are some basics every household should have in case of emergency: water, food, first aid supplies, clothing and bedding, tools and emergency supplies. Keep the supplies in an easy-to-carry container. Call the Oxford County Emergency Agency for a full list of recommended supplies. The following is an incomplete inventory:

• Store one gallon of water per person per day and keep at least a three-day supply of water for each person in your household. Change your supply every six months.

• Store at least a three-day supply of nonperishable food, which can include canned meats, fruits and vegetables, canned juices, milk, soup, sugar, salt, pepper, peanut butter, jelly, crackers, granola bars, trail mix, vitamins, food for infants, the elderly and those on special diets, cookies, hard candy, cereals, instant coffee and tea bags.

• Prepare a fully-equipped first-aid kit.

• Put together tools and supplies, including paper or plastic plates, battery-operated radios, cash or traveler’s checks, flashlights and extra batteries, can openers, a fire extinguisher, a tent, pliers, tape, a compass, a signal flare, needles and thread, medicines, a shut-off wrench to turn off household gas and water, a whistle, plastic sheeting, toilet paper and soap.

• Gather some clothing and bedding, including shoes or work boots, blankets, rain gear, hats and gloves, thermal underwear and sunglasses.