Disaster can strike quickly and without warning. It can force you to evacuate your neighborhood or confine you to your home. It can cut off basic, life-sustaining services such as water, gas, electricity and phones. Natural hazards like the Southeast Asian tsunami and Hurricane Katrina can rob families of their homes and belongings, cause major disruptions to businesses, and cost billions in property damage. Organizations like the American Red Cross and the Federal Emergency Management Agency are actively providing survival tips and much-needed aid to disaster-stricken areas. Survivalist gear and camping supplies are becoming mainstream commodities for disaster preparedness.

        The American Red Cross recommends assembling an “Emergency Supplies Kit” containing water, non-perishable survival food, a first aid kit, clothing and bedding. They also suggest storing a tent, sleeping bags, mess kits, fire extinguisher, can opener, rain gear, and a map of the area for locating shelters. In order to help individuals and companies solve their survival preparedness needs with ease and convenience; new web sites are emerging that specialize in one-stop shopping for all necessary items on the list.

        In December and January alone, the Federal Emergency Management Agency declared nine official disasters across the U.S., including severe winter storms, tidal surges, flooding and tornadoes. Thomas Sciacca, a former marine, outdoorsman, and President of CampingSurvival.com (www.campingsurvival.com) says, “Storms and flooding can force evacuation and travel, so it’s wise to include emergency supplies in each car, as well as in the office, school, or wherever significant time is spent. The best kits are lightweight and are suited to the people who will use them.”

        While emergency kits can be purchased and assembled one item at a time, Sciacca has found that few people have time to drive around to different stores to do an adequate job. “Items get left out, scattered around, or need to be replaced. The best plan is to collect everything together and have it packed, ready and available, before disaster hits,” he explains. Sciacca designed an Internet-based solution that’s a complete, one-stop answer for all disaster preparedness needs.

        The American Red Cross has more advice for preparing for disaster. Store at least a three-day supply of food that requires no refrigeration or cooking. This can be ready-to-eat canned meats, fruits, and vegetables. MRE, or “Meal Ready to Eat”