LEGISLATIVE RESOLUTION memorializing Governor Andrew M. Cuomo to
proclaim September 2016 as Preparedness Month in the State of New York

WHEREAS, It is the sense of this Legislative Body to memorialize Gover-
nor Andrew M. Cuomo to proclaim September 2016 as Preparedness Month in
the State of New York, in conjunction with National Preparedness Month;
and
WHEREAS, Throughout the month of September, the American Red Cross
encourages individuals to take action to plan and prepare for an emer-
gency and to donate blood; and
WHEREAS, Disasters can strike at any time and being prepared is both a
family's and an individual's best defense; supporting Red Cross blood
donation or giving blood is also critical to community preparedness
since hospitals need blood to respond to patient need; and
WHEREAS, The American Red Cross was founded in 1881, by Clara Barton
and is the United States' premier emergency response organization; and
WHEREAS, In the United States, approximately four million people give
blood to the Red Cross, making it the largest supplier of blood and
blood products in the Nation; all types of blood is needed daily, but
type O negative, the universal blood type, is frequently in high demand;
and
WHEREAS, Over the years, the American Red Cross, which relies on
donations of time, money and blood, has expanded its services, including
Disaster Services, with which this vital organization supports victims
of disasters such as fires, floods, earthquakes, heat waves and hurri-
canes; and
WHEREAS, This much needed support helps to pick up the pieces after
the disaster and may take the form of medical help, food safety, water
treatment, financial help, and emergency accommodation; and
WHEREAS, The American Red Cross recommends three simple actions to
prepare for weather-related disaster events and emergencies such as a
house fire: get a kit, make a plan and be informed; and
WHEREAS, Preparedness Month is a time to encourage individuals to take
action and make a plan with their community, family, and for pets to
stay safe and communicate during the disasters which can affect their
community; now, therefore, be it
RESOLVED, That this Legislative Body pause in its deliberations to
memorialize Governor Andrew M. Cuomo to proclaim September 2016 as
Preparedness Month in the State of New York; and be it further
RESOLVED, That a copy of this Resolution, suitably engrossed, be tran-
smitted to The Honorable Andrew M. Cuomo, Governor of the State of New
York.