The impending eruption of Mount Redoubt, the recent 5.6 earthquake and heavy snowfall are all good reminders to get prepared for anything, if we aren't already. Most of us know what we should do in the event of an emergency, we just live hoping the emergency won't happen before we've done it.

Recent events may be just the kick in the pants some need to think seriously about whether our families, homes and work places are prepared for an emergency, whether it be an ashfall, a blizzard or something else. Do we have emergency supplies on hand? Do we know what to do to minimize harm to our health and damage to our electronic gear and equipment if ash starts falling? Do we know how to properly care for our pets? Do we know where to access information so we can keep up with what's happening and not burden emergency personnel with questions? Do we know what the plan is if disaster strikes when kids are in school and parents are at work?

There's one sure bet that can be made about Mother Nature: She's unpredictable. Far better to be prepared for the worst and have nothing happen than not be prepared at all and have the worst happen. Better to get our acts together now.

Some key reminders about what to do during an ashfall bear repeating:

n Stay indoors, particularly if you have respiratory ailments.

n Wear dust masks and eye protection. Do not wear contact lenses. If you don't have a dust mask, cover your mouth and nose with a wet handkerchief.

n Shut down all ventilation systems which draw outside air inside.

n Minimize all travel.

n Keep emergency supplies at home. These should include extra dust masks; enough nonperishable food for at least three days; enough drinking water for at least three days (one gallon per person per day); plastic wrap to keep ash out of electronics; a first aid kit and regular medications; a battery-operated radio with extra batteries; lanterns or flashlights with extra batteries; extra wood, if you have a fireplace or wood stove; extra blankets and warm clothing; cleaning supplies such as a broom, vacuum and shovel; and a small amount of extra cash as ATM machines may not be working.

n If you must drive during an ashfall, drive slowly, use your headlights and use plenty of windshield washer fluid. Change oil, oil filters and air filters frequently (every 50 to 100 miles in heavy dust and every 500 to 1,000 miles in light dust).

Close calls offer residents a chance to test their emergency preparedness. Will we be ready when we need to be?

You're invited

Tonight is a special occasion for the community and the Homer News. The annual community awards mixer honoring Homer's citizen of the year and business of the year is from 5-7 this evening at the Homer News. It's also a chance to help the News celebrate its 45th anniversary. Hope to see you there.