March is a month full of fun and sometimes interesting holidays March is not only a time to celebrate National Noodle Month, but it is also American Red Cross Month.

The American Red Cross has done so much for our country’s well-being since its formation in 1881. Since the Red Cross was formed, countless pints of vital blood supply have been donated and thousands of hours of relief have been volunteered nationally and internationally. It is definitely important to celebrate this tremendous contribution that has been given by Red Cross volunteers and workers.

So how can you get involved in recognizing the selfless dedication of Red Cross volunteers during the month of March and beyond? You can volunteer Red Cross style! Check it our below:

• Donate blood
• Be an emergency contact
• Prepare emergency kits
• Become an AmeriCorps NCCC or the newly formed FEMA Corps member
• Become a certified lifeguard or get your CPR certification
• Get your flu shot
• Establish an emergency plan in your household, workplace, and school
• Educate yourself on how to respond to common emergencies in your area
• Volunteer for disaster relief
• Educate your children on the importance of emergency preparedness
• If you cannot swim, take swim lessons. If you can swim, become a swim lessons instructor.
• Make sure that your house is weather proofed to withstand any natural disasters.
• Determine a safe area in your house for emergencies
• Donate to the Red Cross
• If you are a teacher decorate your classroom in honor of the Red Cross and educate your students on emergency preparedness
• Check your smoke detector
• Have your family do a fire drill
• Establish methods to prepare for a power outage
• Don’t forget about your pets, make sure to include them in your emergency plans
• Donate canned foods, blankets, or emergency kits to groups focused on disaster relief.

We hope that these suggestions will help you become more prepared for any emergency that may come your way. Make sure you stay informed on your community’s weather and health conditions so that you may be ready for all types of disasters. It is important to celebrate everything the Red Cross does to help the community by adopting their practices in your own routine. Get out and stay prepared today!

How are you volunteering for emergency preparedness in your community or household? Share with us in the comments section below!