Did you know that March is Red Cross Month?

Every March, the American Red Cross recognizes our country's everyday heroes who give their time to help people in need. In addition to supplying about 40 percent of our nation's blood, the Red Cross relies on the heroic efforts of its workers and volunteers to provide shelter, food, and emotional support during emergencies and disasters.

Here's five ways you can become a hero for the Red Cross:

• Become a Red Cross volunteer . Lend a hand in your community.
• Give blood . Help a patient going through a hard time.
• Take a class . Gain information and skills to help out in an emergency.
• Make a plan . Get your family involved and develop a preparedness plan for emergencies.
• Make a financial donation . Your generosity will help people  in need.

March is a great month for you to join with other heroes and become a part of the Red Cross. More information on how you can help is available on the Red Cross website .

People over the age of 65 face the greatest risk of dying in a fire, according to the U.S. Fire Administration (USFA).

R educe that risk by protecting yourself and your loved-ones with these special precautions from the USFA:

• Install and maintain smoke alarms on each level of your home and inside and outside sleeping areas. Test them monthly, and replace alkaline batteries at least once a year.
• Develop a fire escape plan around your abilities. If you use a walker or wheelchair, check all exits to be sure that you can go through the doorways. Unless instructed by the fire department, never use an elevator during a fire.
• When using medical oxygen, the amount of oxygen in the air can increase. This means there is a higher risk of both fires and burns because it is easier for a fire to start and spread. Never smoke in a home where someone is using medical oxygen. Also, never use a candle, match, lighter or other open flame. In addition, never use a fireplace, stove or other equipment fueled by gas, kerosene, wood or coal. Keep oil, grease and similar petroleum-based products away from oxygen valves. They can cause a spontaneous explosion.

Learn more about how older adults can stay safe from fire with more tips, resources and statistics from the USFA.

Help the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) recognize members of the community and their contributions to preparedness during the past year.

Let worthy individuals and organizations know about the 2017 FEMA Individual and Community Preparedness Awards, so they can receive the recognition they deserve for their preparedness efforts. Send this announcement along or share a social media post mentioning the awards from America's PrepareAthon , @Citizen_Corps , or @Prepareathon .  

The FEMA Individual and Community Preparedness Awards highlight innovative local practices and achievements by recognizing individuals and organizations that have made outstanding contributions toward strengthening their community to prepare for, respond to, and recover from a disaster.

To learn more about the FEMA Individual and Community Preparedness Awards, visit http://www.ready.gov/preparedness-awards.