Prudent Action vs. Overreaction

We all want to be prepared for emergencies, but wearing a biohazard suit isn't a reasonable option for most of us. Fortunately, there are simple steps you can take to ensure your family's safety in time of disaster--natural or man-made.

Plan vs. Panic

The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) recommends having a portable, disaster-supplies kit on hand. It should include such basic supplies as canned food (don't forget a manual can opener), water, flashlight and portable radio. Solar-powered (with battery backup) and/or hand-crank-charged radios are available, one with a built-in flashlight, from Sundance Solar (603-456-2020, www.sundancesolar.com) for $20-$60. Other items include: clothing, bedding, baby items, important documents and a first aid/medical kit. Get the complete list and more information at: www.fema.gov/library/emfdwtr.shtm.

Medical Kit vs. Hoarding Cipro

Your first-aid kit should include medications taken regularly. But don't worry about stockpiling antibiotics like ciprofloxacin, used to treat the recent outbreak of anthrax. The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) warn that one can't self-diagnose anthrax, and that overuse of cipro could lead to the development of resistance to this valuable drug. The new federal budget proposes $650 million to expand the National Pharmaceutical Stockpile and ensure that treatments for anthrax, smallpox, plague or other biological threats can be delivered quickly anywhere in the country.

Smoke Detectors vs. Canary in the Kitchen

While some New Yorkers bought canaries to provide early warning of biological attack, a smoke detector will protect you, your family and pets from a far more common household threat. Smoke alarms, according to Consumer Reports, "can cut your chances of dying in a house fire roughly in half." Consumer Reports rates smoke and carbon-monoxide alarms in its August and October 2001 issues, respectively. To order ($5), call 914-378-2740, or see www.consumerreports.org. In case of fire, a 15- or 20-foot portable escape ladder is a good idea; even if you're in a high building, "the point is to get below the fire," says Lt. Joe Torrillo, Director of Fire Safety Education at the NYC Fire Department. He recommends ladders approved by the Underwriters Laboratory, available at large hardware stores like Home Depot.

Shop for a Low-Emissions Vehicle vs. an Armored SUV

Buy your next car with energy security, not personal fortification, in mind, and you'll run longer on less. In addition to cutting CO2 emissions by over 40% compared to similar-size cars, the Honda Insight also gets 57 mpg in the city, a drastic contrast to 9-13 mpg for SUVs. See www.greenercars.com for ratings.

Knowledge vs. Flight

While the flight instinct can be very strong, you can first learn what threats might exist nearby (nuclear reactors, chemical plants and the like), and seek regulations to protect your community. For example, the Indian Point Nuclear Power Plant, only 24 miles outside of New York City, is a potential target with a poor safety record. For more information, contact Public Citizen at: 202-588-1000, www.citizen.org/cmep.