The American Red Cross Southwest Chapter is encouraging people to take simple, low-cost steps to prepare for emergencies during National Preparedness Month.
The Red Cross says major disasters are happening more frequently, while smaller emergencies, such as house fires, can happen every day.
Officials recommend creating a household emergency plan, choosing two meeting places, planning evacuation routes and making arrangements for pets and family members who may need assistance.
Residents are also encouraged to build emergency kits gradually using items they already have at home or by shopping sales. A go-kit should contain three days of supplies, while a stay-at-home kit should include two weeks of food and water and, if possible, a one-month supply of medications.
The free Red Cross Emergency app provides preparedness information, weather alerts, live weather maps and shelter locations.
The Red Cross is also reminding people that blood donations are an important part of disaster preparedness. Because blood cannot be manufactured, volunteer donors are needed to maintain supplies for emergencies, surgeries, cancer patients and others.
People can schedule a blood or platelet donation through the Red Cross website, the Blood Donor App or by calling 1-800-RED-CROSS.
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