Quiz: Are You Prepared for the Next Disaster?

For decades, many people believed that opening windows reduced pressure inside homes during tornadoes. But the theory doesn't hold water, and actually, opening windows can let in high winds that may add more damage to the structure. Closed windows increase the chances that your home escapes major damage.

In hurricane-heavy areas, permanent storm shutters are the best protection for your windows. Plus, it beats having to nail plywood to your house (although that will work in a pinch). Tape simply ensures that the glass breaks into guillotine-sized pieces that can cause horrific bodily harm.

Didn't you watch "The Walking Dead"? When the power goes out, ATMs and banks are down for the count. Have extra cash on hand before the storm; otherwise, you won't have any way to pay for necessities.

The DHS says you should have enough food to last three days. Of course, it couldn't hurt to have extra beyond this.

The DHS recommends 1 gallon per person per day, for three days.

While all these methods will kill microbes, distillation also gets rid of contaminants like heavy metals. Distillation involves inserting a cup into the pot of water, boiling it and collecting the vapor dripping from the pot lid into the cup.

You should first run and try to escape the shooter. If that's not possible, try to hide. As a last resort, fight with anything you can lay your hands on.

In the immediate aftermath of major disasters, cell phone towers are overloaded with frantic callers. Use your phone only for genuine emergencies so that people in real trouble can call for help.

It never fails - in the wake of disasters, many people call their insurance adjusters only to find out that certain problems, like flooding, weren't covered. That's why you should review your policy long before a disaster is on the horizon.