Officials: Use disaster test to check readiness

JEFFERSON CITY, Mo. (AP) -- Missouri officials are urging residents to use this week's nationwide test of an emergency alert system to check their own preparations.

The test is scheduled for 1 p.m. Wednesday in Missouri. The State Emergency Management Agency says it's a good reminder for people to replace and replenish supplies that are nearing their expiration dates in their personal emergency kits.

Officials recommend keeping bottled water, canned food, flashlights, batteries, first aid kits and other items on hand. There should be enough to last three days without power or water.