First, you should know that disasters can and do strike every day and that no community or family is immune to disaster. You should learn as much as you can about potential disasters in your community, so you can avoid them or reduce their effects. The more you know, the better you'll be able to prepare for a disaster and, if disaster strikes, the better you'll be able to cope.

Your local Red Cross chapter can provide you with more information on how to prepare for and stay safe during a disaster. Your chapter can train you in first aid and CPR and let you know more about the range of services offered in your community.

The American Red Cross is charted by the U.S. Congress (Act of Congress of January 5, 1905, as amended, 36 U.S.C. Sections 1-9) to undertake relief activities to mitigate the suffering caused by disasters. It is a community-based, voluntary organization. There are almost 2,600 Red Cross chapters, throughout all 50 sates, U.S possessions, and dependencies.