Consumer Reports opens 'Home Front'

Newsday

A new section has been appearing fairly regularly in Consumer Reports, the magazine published by the nonprofit Consumers Union, called "Home Front." Topics in the section have ranged from standard personal finance tips to items directly related to terrorism.

Some excerpts:

• Preplan your estate, and don't forget something as basic as a will.

• Keep documents safe, and make a list of their location, with a copy kept in a home file or with a friend, relative or attorney.

• Stay informed. One source recommended was the American Red Cross' site for preparing for terrorism, www.redcross.org/services/disaster/keepsafe/unexpected.html. A link on that site connects you to the Red Cross' advice on disaster supplies, including at least a three-day supply of nonperishable food.

• Practice workplace safety. Know your fire exits, participate in fire drills and encourage your employer to provide proper building security.

• And, to paraphrase one tip, don't be stupid, or as one of the magazine's "flying dos and don'ts" cautions: "DON'T argue with or make snide remarks to airport security agents. 'Do I look like a terrorist?' may be about the dumbest thing anyone could say nowadays."