RENO — With September designated as National Preparedness Month, the northern Nevada chapter of the American Red Cross urges local residents to make a renewed effort in September to prepare for a possible resurgence of the H1N1 flu this fall – and for other emergencies such as fires, floods or storms.

This month, the Red Cross joins the Department of Homeland Security’s Ready Campaign in celebrating National Preparedness Month. Locally, the northern Nevada chapter is offering a series of free lunchtime presentations on topics such as Be Red Cross Ready (Sept. 10), Earthquake Safety (Sept. 16), Fire Safety and Prevention (Sept. 22) and Your Pets in a Disaster (Sept. 28). Each presentation will be held at 1190 Corporate Blvd. in Reno from 12:15 to 1 p.m. and the public is invited to bring their lunches. Dessert will be provided. There is no cost, but registration is required.

For more information about local activities during National Preparedness Month, contact the Northern Nevada Chapter at 856-1000. Emergency preparedness and first aid items are available for purchase at www.RedCrossStore.org.