By Lookout Staff

Are you ready in case disaster strikes?

April 25, 2011 -- It's going to be easier to prepare than ever, thanks to the first “One-Stop Prep Shop” at the Civic Auditorium hosted by Santa Monica's Office of Emergency Management Tuesday.

Nearly everything you need to be prepared – from water to flashlights to first aid kits to more – will be laid out for consumers, making it easier than ever to stock up in case of the worst.

“We want to make it as easy as possible for people to be prepared,” Emergency Services Coordinator Paul Weinberg told the Lookout Friday.

The One-Stop Prep Shop will be a place where people can come and pick up the supplies they would need in case of an emergency, based on the “I've got 7” campaign which urges citizens to have at least seven days of supplies.

This is just the start, Weinberg said, adding that this is “a model for several more throughout the year.”

Fisher Lumber and Bob's Market will provide items like bottled water, flashlights and first aid kits. SOS Survival Products, an emergency supply store based in the San Fernando Valley, will also contribute to the event.

A portion of the money earned will be donated to relief efforts in New Zealand and Japan.

Santa Monica residents are urged to take the “I've Got 7” Pledge. Those who do so, and register with the Santa Monica branch of the American Red Cross, will be eligible for giveaways.

The shop will be open in the Civic Center parking lot at 1855 Main Street from 9:00 AM to 4:00 PM on Tuesday, April 26. Parking is free for 30 minutes.

For more information about the One-Stop Shop, to learn about what items are vital to an emergency readiness kit, and to place an order or take the “I've Got 7” Pledge, visit http://www.ivegot7.com/.