SPRINGFIELD, IL (KFVS) - The Illinois Emergency Management Agency (IEMA) is stressing the importance of emergency  preparedness throughout May as part of its 2013 preparedness campaign.

“Businesses that emphasize emergency preparedness both in the workplace and for their employees at home help protect their most important assets, their employees,” said IEMA Director Jonathon Monken.  “Throughout May, we’re encouraging businesses to take a look at their workplace emergency plans, conduct safety drills and encourage their employees to put together a home emergency supply kit and family communications plan.”

Monken said his agency plans to provide preparedness information and tips to staff throughout May. 

IEMA says to develop a plan that addresses each threat, taking into consideration different shifts.

 Other parts of an emergency plan include:

WILLIAMSON COUNTY, IL (KFVS) - The American Red Cross is asking for blood donations this summer.

Red Cross officials say blood donations often decline during the summer, when schools are out and vacations are in.

The Red Cross encourages donors to make an appointment to give now.

Donors who present to give blood between May 23 and 31 in honor of Memorial Day could win one of five $1,000 American Express gift cards to create their own summer of stories.

The Red Cross says they serve about 3,000 hospitals and transfusion centers across the country, including many Veterans Affairs medical centers.

You can learn more and make an appointment to donate blood by visiting redcrossblood.org or calling 1-800-RED CROSS.

Upcoming blood donation opportunities:

Butler County, MO