Here are some practical ideas to give to those you really care about. They don't cost much and could save a life in an emergency. These come recommended by the Federal Emergency Management Agency http://www.fema.gov.

• Smoke detector with extra batteries.
• Household fire extinguishers for kitchen and all bedrooms (5 pound, A-B-C type).
• Foldable ladder for evacuation of a second story in a fire.
• Heavy-duty flashlight with extra batteries and a battery-powered lamp.
• First aid kit.
• Battery-powered radio with extra batteries.
• NOAA Weather Radio with a battery backup and tone-alert feature to receive weather and other emergency alerts.
• Sturdy plastic tub filled with bottled water and non-perishable, high energy food and canned goods.
• Camp stove or canned-heat stove, with extra fuel.
• Winter car kit that includes emergency flares, shovel, windshield scraper, battery-powered radio, flashlight, water, snacks, tow chain or rope, tire chains and fluorescent distress flag.
• Services of a gardener to cut back combustible plants and vegetation from around a house that is vulnerable to wildfires.
• Supplies for a pet disaster kit, including food, bottled water, leashes, toys, plastic dish and carrying case or crate.

Have a safe and happy Holiday Season!

TJ Johnston