American Red Cross in Greater New York CEO Theresa A. Bischoff demonstrates what items should be included in an emergency Go Bag, including the crank and battery powered radio she's holding, at an event marking the beginning of September Preparedness Month at Stuyvesant Town in Manhattan on September 5th. Looking on are from left, Council Member Dan Garodnick, a Civilian Emergency Response Team member, and Public Advocate Betsy Gotbaum. Both Council Member Garodnick and Public Advocate Gotbaum urges New Yorkers to take the basic steps to get their families prepared for the unexpected.

The Red Cross recommends all New Yorkers "Be Red Cross Ready” - Get a Kit, Make a Plan, Be Informed. Preparedness outreach events are being held through New York City and Putnam, Orange, Rockland and Sullivan Counties throughout September. Click here for a list of events.

Visitors can also take the online Readiness Quiz, request a 16-page Family Preparedness Guide and be entered to win a free Red Cross emergency Go Bag.