Although residents are most familiar with hurricanes and their destruction, there are other emergencies that residents can, and should, prepare for.

September is National Preparedness Month and the American Red Cross urges everyone to prepare for emergencies in their homes, businesses and communities.

Although 89 percent of those surveyed believe being prepared is important, 20 percent have done nothing to get prepared. “Being prepared today can save lives tomorrow,” said Kay Wilkins, CEO of the Southeast Louisiana Chapter. “Your readiness is your best defense against emergencies. The Red Cross can show you what simple steps you need to take to prepare yourself and your loved ones for emergencies.”

There are three things people should do to be prepared – build an emergency preparedness kit, make a plan as to what your family will do in an emergency and be informed about what resources are available in the community and what types of disasters could occur there.

The same emergency kits that are prepared for hurricane season can be used year round for other emergency planning. You should have enough supplies for three days in case you need to evacuate. The Red Cross also recommends having at least two weeks worth of supplies at home, including a gallon of water per person a day, nonperishable food, a flashlight, battery-powered or hand-crank radio, extra batteries, first aid kit, a 7-day supply of medications, a multi-purpose tool, sanitation and personal hygiene items and copies of important personal documents, including insurance papers.

The Southeast Louisiana Chapter of the Red Cross urges area residents to make a renewed effort in September to prepare for emergencies such as hurricanes, fires, floods or severe storms. The Red Cross has created a free online education program to make it easier for people to get prepared. The Be Red Cross Ready program walks people through three key preparedness steps: getting an emergency kit, making an emergency plan and being informed.

In addition, Sept. 25, volunteers will be handing out information and answering questions at the Lowe’s stores in Covington and Slidell.

For more information on how to get prepared for the unexpected, visit www.redcross.org or call 504-620-3105.