Be Informed

It is more than simply getting trained. Know what may happen to you 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 house fire or medical emergency, to those affecting your entire community, like an earthquake or flood.

Identify how local authorities will notify you during a disaster and how you will get important information, whether through local radio, TV, NOAA weather radio stations or channels.

Learn what you can do to prepare for local disasters by contacting the American Red Cross, Greater Buffalo Chapter at (716) 886-7500. Ask about first aid, CPR and disaster training. Learning simple first aid techniques can give you the skills and confidence to help when someone in your home, your neighborhood or work is injured.

When a major disaster occurs, Western New York can change in an instant. Your loved ones can be hurt, and emergency response can be delayed as they deal with the situation. Make sure at least one member of your household is trained in first aid and CPR and in how to use an automated external defibrillator (AED).

Share what you have learned with your family, household and neighbors. Encourage them to be informed too.