01:00 AM EST on Saturday, January 14, 2006

In addition to the state and local governments, every household needs to be prepared for a pandemic. Here are some tips from the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services:

Get informed. For a better understanding of what a flu pandemic might mean, go to:

www.pandemicflu.gov

www.health.ri.gov

The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention hot line: 1-800-CDC-INFO (1-800-232-4636). Available around the clock in Spanish and English. TTY: 1-888-232-6348.

Think ahead: Plan for a worst-case scenario.

Usual services may be disrupted, including pharmacies, supermarkets, post offices, banks, government offices, care for the disabled, and even worship services.

You may not be able to work, because your office may be closed. Find out if you can work from home; be prepared for loss of income.

Schools may be closed for an extended period of time.

Public transportation may be disrupted.

Be prepared:

Stock up on water and food, especially nonperishable items that don't have to be cooked, such as: canned meats, fruits, vegetables and soups; protein or fruit bars; dry cereal or nuts; dried fruit; crackers; canned juices; bottled water; baby food; pet food.

Gather an emergency supply of medical and health items, such as glucose or blood-monitoring equipment, soap and alcohol-based hand wash; medicines for fever, such as acetaminophen or ibuprofen; thermometer; anti-diarrheal medication; vitamins; fluids with electrolytes; flashlight; portable radio; manual can opener; garbage bags; tissues, toilet paper, disposable diapers.

Ask your doctor and insurance company if you can get an extra supply of prescription drugs.

Talk with family members and loved ones about how they would be cared for if they got sick, or what will be needed to care for them in your home.

Teach your children to wash hands frequently with soap and water, and do the same yourself. Also, cover coughs and sneezes with tissues, and stay away from others if sick.

Prepare an emergency health information sheet for each member of your family, listing blood type, allergies, medical conditions and medications.