Sept. 29. As Ian makes its way to the Carolinas, the Greater Carolinas Region of the American Red Cross is encouraging communities to prepare for possible impacts here, including flooding and high winds. The following tips and steps are useful for any serious storm, including this coming winter.

Action plan

—Create an evacuation plan.  Plan what to do in case you are separated from your family during an emergency and if you have to evacuate.

—Build an emergency kit with a gallon of water per person, per day, non-perishable food, a flashlight, battery-powered radio, first aid kit, medications, supplies for infants or pets, a multi-purpose tool, personal hygiene items, copies of important papers, cell phone chargers, extra cash, blankets, maps of the area and emergency contact information.

—Include pets in your planning. Have your animal crate, supplies, medications and food ready to go should a disaster hit.

—The need for blood is constant. Blood can take up to three days to be tested, processed and made available for patients, so it’s the blood already on the shelves that helps save lives in an emergency.

—Stay informed. Find out how local officials will contact you during a disaster and how you will get important information, such as evacuation orders.

Red Cross resources

Download the free Red Cross Emergency App for real-time weather alerts, open shelters, and expert advice on emergency situations. Search “American Red Cross” in app stores or go to redcross.org/apps.

You can also enable the Red Cross Hurricane Alert skill on Amazon Alexa-enabled devices to receive warnings about an approaching hurricane and preparedness information.

For preparedness and safety resources, visit redcross.org/prepare. Tips also available in Spanish.