Being Red Cross ready helps during emergencies Published June 5, 2007 By Airman 1st Class Jessica Gilbert Det. 10, Air Force News Agency YOKOTA AIR BASE, Japan (AFPN) -- Being prepared for emergencies is crucial at home, school, work and in the community, but how does someone prepare for something as devastating as an earthquake or tsunami? The best way to stay "Red Cross Ready" is to have a kit, make a plan and be informed, said Jane Dustman of the Yokota Air Base Red Cross office. "There are several things that people need to do, one is have a plan. For instance, if you need to leave the house, where is your family going to meet?" Mrs. Dustman said. "The other thing is to be prepared to have your information, such as birth certificates and legal wills, available where you can carry them out with you." However, disaster can strike quickly and without warning, and in-house preparations aren't always accessible. That's where family communication comes in handy. "For us here in the military, it's important to be mindful of the fact that if something happens in the news that affects the area we live in, it might be a good time to send that e-mail to family saying that the earthquake or tsunami did not impact you and that you are safe," Mrs. Dustman said. Though Red Cross officials and relief workers will be on the scene after a natural disaster, they can't reach everyone right away. Red Cross officials suggest the best way to stay safe is to have a kit, make a plan and stay informed. For more information on being Red Cross Ready go online to https://www.redcross.org. Comment on this story (comments may be published on Air Force Link) Click here to view the comments/letters page