What does it mean to Be Red Cross Ready? It means that you have taken the steps to be prepared for emergencies and disasters.

How? It's easy; just get a kit, make a plan and be informed.

Chances are that you know what kind of disasters happen in your community, you know what you would do in an emergency and you have some of the items you need to build a kit. We want you to take this one step further and get organized and mobilize. Put your plan on paper and talk about it with your family or friends. Gather those items you need for your kit and put them in an easy-to-carry container. Make sure you stay informed about what can happen in your community.

Taking these actions now not only help you Be Red Cross Ready, but it makes our community, as a whole, better prepared for what ever comes our way.

Take an online tutorial.

Getting a kit doesn't mean you have to go out and buy one (although you can) or spend a lot of money to make on your own. In fact, you probably already have many of the items that you need for a kit. What would you need if your daily life was interrupted? If the power goes out, you would probably need a flashlight? Wouldn't it be nice for it to always be located in the same spot? Build and kit and you will always know where to find it and other items you need in an emergency.

Your basic kit should include water, food, flashlight(s), a first aid kit, medications, a radio, tools, clothing, personal items, sanitary supplies, money (cash), contact information, pet supplies and a map.

Make sure your kit is in an easy-to-carry container(s) with enough supplies to support your entire household for three days. It is also recommended that you have more than three days of supplies at home in case you are unable to leave for an extended period of time. You may also consider getting a kit for your car. Don't forget to check your kit(s) every six months and restock as necessary.

Remember, Get a Kit is not an all or nothing idea. A little prepared is better than not at all prepared. This plan allows you to build a kit to suit your personal and local emergency needs.

Kit Podcast: Listen to the podcast!

Make a plan based on your household's unique needs and the type of disasters that are likely to occur in your community.

Talk. Discuss what disasters or emergencies might happen in your community. Talk about why it is important to plan and work together as a team if an emergency occurs.

Plan. Choose two places where household members will meet after a disaster: one outside of your home and another outside your neighborhood. Determine two ways to get out of each room in your home and two ways to evacuate your community. If you have pets, don't forget to include them in your plan.

Develop a communication plan. Include an out-of-town emergency contact. During a disaster it may be easier to call long distance. It is important that every member of the household know the name and number of the emergency contact. Download and print an emergency contact card for each member of your household.

Learn. Know what the disaster warning signals are in your community and what to do or where to go when you hear them. Find out what the emergency plans are for your workplaces and schools. Adults should learn how to turn off utilities such as gas, water and electricity; and, know how to properly use a fire extinguisher. Make sure everyone in your household knows how to call for emergency help.

Tell. Everyone in your household should know where emergency information and supplies are stored. Keep information updated and supplies well-stocked.

Practice. Review your plan and practice evacuation drills (from your home and your neighborhood) at least two times a year.

Use an emergency preparedness shopping list.

Plan Podcast: Listen to the podcast!

Know what may happen and how you can help. Learn what disasters or emergencies may occur where you live, work and play. Find out how local authorities will notify you during a disaster. Learn what you can do to prepare for disasters- learn first aid and CPR. Share what you have learned with others and encourage them to Be Red Cross Ready.

Be Informed Podcast: Listen to the podcast!