Chapter Chief External Affairs Officer Rosemary Mackey and NYC Public Advocate Betsy Gotbaum were joined at City Hall with members of the Red Cross and public advocate’s office to launch the city’s summer emergency preparation program. (Photo: Mike Virgintino)

As NYC moves into the season of hurricanes and blackouts, Public Advocate Betsy Gotbaum has called on New Yorkers to take simple steps to prepare themselves. Public Advocate Gotbaum, joined by American Red Cross in Greater New York Chief External Affairs Officer Rosemary Mackey, announced the beginning of a citywide summer tour to spread awareness about disaster and emergency preparedness.

Public Advocate Gotbaum urged New Yorkers to talk to their kids about emergency planning: pick a meeting place, plan an exit route, designate an out-of-state relative or friend, and pack an emergency kit.

"Emergency preparedness isn't about scaring New Yorkers - it"s about taking common sense steps for safety. As we all know, disasters can happen, and New Yorkers need to be prepared,” said Ms. Gotbaum.

As part of her five borough tour, Public Advocate Gotbaum will pass out pamphlets about preparedness and raffle off "Go Bags".

"It is imperative that all New Yorkers work closely with us to become trained to protect themselves and their families, and we ask that residents, organizations and business join us now as trained volunteers so they are able to help their fellow citizens during an emergency," added Chapter Chief External Affairs Officer Rosemary Mackey. 

Summer Preparedness Tour Dates

**Dates are subject to change**

July 11 -- Philharmonic Concert, Central Park, Manhattan
July 26 -- Marty Markowitz Concert ,Asser Levy Field, Brooklyn
August 4 -- Jamaica Arts & Music Festival, Parson Boulevard, Queens
August 20 -- MLK Concert, Wingate Field, Brooklyn
September 8 -- Annual Greek Festival Richmond Avenue, Staten Island
September 8 -- Richmond County Fair 44 Clarke Avenue, Staten Island
September 9 -- Third Avenue Street Fair Third Ave, Manhattan
September 23 -- Irish Fair Keyspan Park, Brooklyn