This is National Preparedness Month - Are You Ready?

The American Red Cross today announced a new initiative designed to improve disaster preparedness throughout seven counties in Central California. With the Prepare Central Valley campaign, the Red Cross will host disaster preparedness events to educate the community about how to be prepared for disasters.

The campaign will kick off during National Preparedness month with a “Prep Rally” in Courthouse Park, Downtown Fresno on September 9, 2011 from 11:00am to 1:00pm. A variety of disaster preparedness organizations will provide information and activities for adults and children, to help families prepare for different types of disaster.

Continuing its ongoing support of the American Red Cross, Pacific Gas and Electric Company (PG&E) has pledged one hundred and fifty thousand dollars to the Central Valley Region, as part of a $1 million gift to the Red Cross, supporting northern and central California communities.

"It is not a matter of if, but when the next disaster strikes. More likely than not, this will come in the form of a catastrophic flood or wildfire. The Prepare Central Valley campaign will help make sure that our residents have the tools they need to plan, lead and rebuild our diverse communities,” said Ellen Knapp, Regional Chief Executive Officer of the American Red Cross Central Valley Region. “PG&E’s generous support of this preparedness campaign allows us to reach even further into communities across Central California, teaching residents how to be ready when disasters occur.”

”The Red Cross not only provides relief to those affected by disasters around the world, it also empowers individuals right here in our own community to prevent, prepare for and respond to emergencies,” said Ed Bedwell, vice president for government relations for PG&E. “PG&E’s support of the Prepare Central Valley campaign continues our longtime commitment to emergency preparedness in the communities we serve and is an extension of our proud history of supporting the American Red Cross.”

The Red Cross will work closely with community leaders, local businesses, government agencies, schools and nonprofit organizations to identify vulnerable neighborhoods, assess readiness needs, equip residents and community leaders with disaster preparedness and response skills, tools, supplies and plans, and foster sustainable relationships to continue the ongoing disaster preparedness efforts.

Join us at the "Prep Rally" on September 17th, to view the full flier, click here!