On the February 25, 2010 in a Presidential Proclamation, President Barack Obama designated March 2010 as American Red Cross Month across the United States.  Read the proclamation here.

In the proclamation, President Obama urged all Americans to observe the month of March with appropriate programs, ceremonies, and activities and support the work of the United States’ service and relief organizations.  He also encouraged Americans to better prepare ourselves, our families, and our neighbors against a wide range of emergencies.

During the month of March 2010, Red Cross chapters across the county will have numerous activities planned to celebrate this annual observance. To find the chapter closest to you, visit http://www.redcross.org/?action=ChangeZip and click on "Your Local Red Cross." 

Red Cross Month is a great time to plan how you can prepare for and help when the next disaster strikes. To this end, Portland Fire & Rescue will provide you with ways to prepare, plan, and help protect yourself and community from a wide range of emergencies during the month of March. Look for informative topics such as:

• Creating and stocking an Emergency Supply Kit
• Developing a Family Emergency Plan
• Local emergency plans
• Identifying specific hazards that effect your local area and what you should do before, during, and after each hazard type

Check on the Fire Blog each week for this important information – remember, disasters can strike at any place at any time and being prepared is your BEST defense.

March 4, 2010