Red Cross urges families to prepare for emergencies during National Preparedness Month

KBSI FOX23 News at 9 p.m.

CAPE GIRARDEAU, Mo., (KBSI) — The American Red Cross of Southeast Missouri and Northeast Arkansas is urging residents to take steps now to prepare for disasters as part of National Preparedness Month.

Officials said tornadoes and home fires remain the most significant threats in Missouri. Between July 2024 and June 2025, the Red Cross responded to more than 15 disaster relief operations across Missouri and Arkansas, including destructive spring tornadoes. Locally, the Southeast Missouri and Northeast Arkansas chapter assisted more than 1,400 people after nearly 450 home fires.

“National Preparedness Month is a great time to ask whether your family would be ready if something unexpected happened tomorrow,” said Michael Sullivan, executive director of the Red Cross chapter. “It’s not about being scared; it’s about being smart and looking out for the people you love.”

The Red Cross recommends families create emergency plans, gather supplies and know how to stay connected during crises. Officials encourage households to:

Plan ahead for shelter or evacuation, including where to go, how to get there and what to bring.

Assemble “go-kits” with three days of supplies and “stay-at-home kits” with two weeks of food and water, along with backup batteries, radios and personal records.

Customize kits with items for children, older adults and pets.

Make a communication plan with important phone numbers written down in case cell service is disrupted.

The Red Cross Emergency App provides weather alerts and safety guidance in English and Spanish. Residents are also encouraged to sign up for local government emergency alerts.

Community members can support preparedness efforts by donating blood, taking lifesaving classes such as CPR or volunteering with the Red Cross.

“Whether it’s a fire in someone’s home or a storm that destroys an entire town, disasters can happen anywhere, at any time,” Sullivan said. “Taking a few minutes now to get ready will help you protect your loved ones if the worst happens.”

The Red Cross is a nonprofit organization that relies on volunteers and public donations to support disaster relief, blood supplies and humanitarian services. More information is available at redcross.org or by calling 800-RED CROSS.