PORTLAND — September is National Preparedness Month and the American Red Cross of Northern New England urges everyone to protect their loved ones by getting their households ready now.

So far this year, the Red Cross has responded to more than 180 disasters across Maine. The vast majority of these emergencies were related to home fires. In fact, our disaster action teams have assisted nearly 600 Mainers after home fires in 2025 alone. River and coastal flooding – as well as destruction from winter storms – also pose disaster threats to Maine residents.

“National Preparedness Month is a great time to ask whether your family would be ready if something unexpected happened tomorrow,” said John Montes, regional disaster officer, Red Cross Northern New England Region. “It’s not about being sc

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