Preparedness starts at home: Red Cross urges everyone to get ready for
emergencies now
[September 04, 2025]
September is National Preparedness Month and the American Red
Cross urges everyone to protect their loved ones by getting their
households ready now.
“National Preparedness Month is a great time to ask whether your family
would be ready if something unexpected happened tomorrow,” said Kellie
O’Connell, CEO of the Illinois Red Cross. “It’s not about being scared;
it’s about being smart and looking out for
the people you love. Taking a few simple steps now so that you have a
plan can make all the difference when it matters most.”
HOW TO GET READY
Disasters don’t wait for the “right time” — they can happen in the
middle of the night, during your commute or while your kids are at
school. Protect your family by making a plan to stay safe, gathering
important supplies and knowing how you’ll stay connected by taking these
steps:
Depending on the emergency, you may need to stay where you are or go
somewhere else to stay safe. If you may need to leave, think about where
you’ll go, how you’ll get there, where you’ll stay and what you’ll take
with you. Plan well in advance if you’ll need
help leaving or use public transportation.
Next, gather and organize critical supplies — like food, water and
medicine — into a go-kit and a stay-at-home kit. Make sure to include
backup batteries and chargers for your devices (cell phone, CPAP,
wheelchair, etc.), a battery-powered or hand-crank radio,
and critical personal records.
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Your go-kit should include three days of supplies that you can take with
you. Your stay-at-home kit should have two weeks of food and water, and
a one-month supply of medications, if possible.
Customize your kit to meet your household’s specific needs. If you have
young children, don’t forget formula and diapers. If you have pets,
include leashes, carriers, food, bowls, litter and a litterbox.
Finally, make a plan to reconnect with loved ones if you are separated
or if the phone or internet is down. Write down important phone numbers
on a contact card and carry it with you.
[Jayce Eustice
Regional Communications Manager
American Red Cross of Illinois]
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