How to get ready for emergencies
•September 9, 2026•
Major disasters are happening more often now, about once every two weeks. Add on the smaller emergencies that happen every day - like a fire in someone’s home - and it’s more important than ever for everyone to get their households prepared.
At the same time, as prices continue to climb on just about everything, getting prepared for a disaster can feel out of reach, too much of a financial burden. But the American Red Cross has a few simple, low-cost or no-cost steps everyone can take to help them get prepared.
“September is National Preparedness Month, the perfect time to get ready for emergencies large and small,” said Jeannie Moran Gardner, Regional Disaster Officer for the Illinois Red Cross. “Disasters can happen anywhere, at any time and getting your household ready for them doesn’t have to break the bank. Try a few of these low-cost or no-cost steps and get started protecting your loved ones.”