According to a USA Today/CNN/Gallup poll, 27 percent of Americans say they have changed or will change some aspect of their personal lives to reduce their chances of being the victim of a terrorist attack, and 68 percent said they are more aware of things that could affect their personal safety since the attacks.

Bill Stanton, a security expert and former New York City police officer, who wrote The Anti-Terror Checklist, said that one of the most important things you can do is establish a network. Here are his suggestions:

1. Decide who will be in your personal network, including yourself, your spouse, your children, family and friends.

2. Trade significant information with and about the other people in the network, including phone numbers, e-mail addresses, cell phone numbers, addresses and directions.

3. Delegate tasks.

4. Get a team leader — one person should be in charge of the group.

5. Designate a command post where everyone can meet.

6. Do "what if" scenarios to determine what should be done in various emergencies.

Another important aspect is having general supplies handy, Stanton said. That includes: canned goods (vegetable soups, fruits), dry goods (trail mix, for protein), meal replacement type shakes, bottled water, one gallon per day per person, flashlight, batteries, including all cell phone batteries, radio, first aid kit, maps of surrounding area, manual can opener, portable heater and, of course, your personal items and medications.

1. Determine and discuss the types of hazards that could affect your family.

2. Have an out-of-state family contact and at least two ways of contact — e-mail, phone, etc.

3. Keep your vehicles fueled, and be sure to check oil, water and tires.

4. If a biological or chemical release threatens your area, you will be notified by emergency officials and will be given instructions.

5. Watch or listen for Emergency Alert System announcements. ( AM 600, 1130 )

6. Depending on the situation, it may be necessary to evacuate during a biological or chemical release, but in most cases you may be requested to shelter in place.

7. Suspicious mail: FOLLOW INSTRUCTIONS ON THE U.S. POSTAL SERVICE POSTCARD YOU RECEIVE.

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