It's important that you be prepared for possible disasters and other emergencies. To help you prepare, Red Cross representatives are available to staff events or give presentations full of information to help you prevent, prepare for and respond to emergencies. Each presentation uses the Be Red Cross Ready program, which includes 3 steps: Get A Kit, Make A Plan and Be Informed.

Disaster Preparedness Outreach

Natural or human-caused disasters can strike suddenly, anytime and anywhere. Red Cross representatives are available to give information to your group on how to prepare for and respond to disasters.

In Dodge, Milwaukee, Ozaukee or Waukesha County, fill out the request form and list of preparedness presentations offered in Dodge, Milwaukee, Ozaukee or Waukesha County, and mail the form to 2600 West Wisconsin Avenue, Milwaukee, WI  53233 or call 414-342-8680.

If you need a presentation in Kenosha, Racine or Walworth County, call 262-554-9997.

Three Steps to Preparedness

Even if you can't attend one of our presentations, make sure that you follow these three steps to prepare your household.

Get A Kit

Have at least three days of supplies in an easy-to-carry evacuation kit (what if you need to evacuate due to flooding or a gas leak?), with additional supplies on hand. Remember to check your kit and replace the stock every six months. You can purchase the kit at redcross.org or compile these household items into a kit:

• Water. Have at least one gallon per person per day.
• Food. Pack non-perishable, high-protein items, including energy bars, ready-to-eat soup, peanut butter, etc. Select foods that require no refrigeration, preparation or cooking and little to no water.
• Flashlight. Hand-crank and alternative energy options are available. Include extra batteries if applicable.
• First aid kit. Include a first aid reference guide.
• Medications. Don't forget prepscription and non-prescription items.
• Radio. Include extra batteries or use a hand-crank radio.
• Tools. Gather a wrench to turn off gas if necessary, a manual can opener, screwdriver, hammer, pliers, knife, duct tape, plastic sheeting and garbage bags and ties.
• Clothing. Provide a change of clothes for everyone including sturdy shoes and gloves.
• Personal items. Remember copies of important documents (passports, health information, etc.) and any eyeglasses, contact lenses and solution and comfort items like toys and books, if pertinant.
• Sanitary supplies. You may need toilet paper, towelettes, feminine supplies, personal hygiene items, bleach, etc.
• Money. Have cash.
• Contact information. Carry a current list of family phone numbers and email addresses, including someone out of the area who may be easier to reach if local phone lines are out of service or overloaded.
• Pet supplies. For each pet, include food, water, a collar aleash/cage/carrying case, litter box or plastic bags, tags, any medications and vaccination information.
• Map. Consider marking an evacuation route on it from your local area.

Make a Plan

Planning ahead will help you have the best possible response to disaster.

Be Informed

Know what may happen and how you can help. Learn what disasters or emergencies may occur where you live, work and play. These events can vary from those affecting only you and your family, like a home fire or medical emergency, to those affecting your entire community, like an earthquake or flood.

For more information, use our contact form to request a presentation or brochure.