Preparedness Month may have taken on a new meaning this year. The flooding that took place in metro Phoenix last week came during the month officials have set aside for people to make a plan to keep their families safe in an emergency.

Aprille Slutsky with the Arizona Division of Emergency Management said the plan can then be executed if you’re without heat, clean water, or power.

"We really want to encourage people to work to be prepared throughout the whole year, but now is a good time think about things you might need to do to be prepared for an emergency or disaster,” Slutsky said.

Slutsky said important items for an emergency kit include a gallon of drinking water per person per day, non-perishable foods that can last up to three days, flashlights, blankets and first-aid supplies. She said it’s also wise to have a family plan of action that includes how to contact one another in the event of a disaster.