September is National Preparedness Month. The month was designated as a time for people and families to recognize potentially difficult circumstances. Among those in Ohio include: fires, winter storms, earthquakes, power outages, floods, and tornadoes.

In accordance with the purpose of the month, the American Red Cross suggests the following ways to increase preparedness:

• Post emergency telephone numbers by phones (fire, police, ambulance, etc.).
• Teach children how and when to call 911 or your local Emergency Medical Services number for emergency help.
• Determine the best escape routes from your home. Find two ways out of each room.
• Find the safe spots in your home for each type of disaster.
• Show each family member how and when to turn off the water, gas, and electricity at the main switches.
• Check if you have adequate insurance coverage.
• Teach each family member how to use the fire extinguisher, and show them where it’s kept.
• Install smoke detectors on each level of your home, especially near bedrooms.
• Conduct a home hazard hunt.
• Stock emergency supplies and assemble a disaster supplies kit.
• Take a Red Cross first aid and CPR class.