American Red Cross press release:
American Red Cross urges public to prepare during National Preparedness Month
The American Red Cross of Northeast Indiana is committed to educating the community to prepare for and respond to emergencies and disasters of all types. During National Preparedness Month in September, the Red Cross strongly suggests that all families and individuals follow the Be Red Cross Ready action steps to 1) get a kit, 2) make a plan, and 3) be informed.
- Get a kit: Gather the necessary supplies you need to act on your plan in the event of a disaster. Have at least three days of food, water, and supplies in an easy-to-carry evacuation kit with additional supplies at home, in case you cannot leave. Your kit should contain supplies such as flashlights with extra batteries, a first aid kit, and personal hygiene items. Encourage your neighbors, work places and community groups to gather supplies so they are prepared, too. Remember to check your kit and replace the stock every six months.
- Make a plan: Decide what you and your family will do when your daily routines are disrupted by a disaster. Plan together what each person is expected to do, where everyone will go, and how to get there. Write down your plan, share it with each other and then practice it at least twice a year. Make certain your plan includes how you will assist your neighbors while taking care of yourself and family.
- Be informed: Learn about what disasters or emergencies may occur where you live, work and play. Learn what you can do to prepare for these events by visiting your local Red Cross and ask about local disasters and training. Identify how local authorities will notify you during a disaster and how you will get important information, including local radio, TV and NOAA weather radio. Share what you have learned with your family, household and neighbors to encourage them to be informed, too. Take a class in CPR and first aid to learn how best to respond to life-threatening emergencies.
According to recent Red Cross polls, while the majority of Americans think it’s a good idea to get prepared for disasters and other emergencies, only 7% of the population has taken the necessary actions to Be Red Cross Ready. Considering that northeast Indiana is affected by some type of disaster nearly every two months, preparedness is essential. By following these three simple steps, families and individuals will feel better prepared to respond to disasters in all forms. For more information on being Red Cross Ready, visit on-line or call (260) 484-9336.
About the American Red Cross
The American Red Cross shelters, feeds and provides emotional support to victims of disasters; supplies nearly half of the nation’s blood; teaches lifesaving skills; provides international humanitarian aid; and supports military members and their families. The Red Cross is a charitable organization — not a government agency — and depends on volunteers and the generosity of the American public to perform its mission. The American Red Cross of Northeast Indiana serves nine counties: Allen, DeKalb, Miami, Noble, Steuben, Wabash, Wells and Whitley Counties in Indiana and Williams County in Ohio. For more information, call (260) 484-9336 or 1-800-513-2599, or visit on-line.
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