NYC EMS

National Preparedness Month with the launch of the Ready New York City CampaignHomeland Security Secretary Janet Napolitano joined officials from the Office of Emergency Services today to kick off National Preparedness Month with the launch of the Ready New York City Campaign.

The campaign urges New Yorkers to come up with a plan and prepare emergency kits in case of a disaster or terrorist attack.

"There are simple items to go inside: a little bit of cash, important papers, medications, an extra pair of eyeglasses, the things that if you run out in your pajamas, you wish you had in those minutes after a disaster," said Terry Bischoff, chief executive officer of the American Red Cross of Greater New York.

"I think the people of New York City can be confident that the emergency planning for any type of scenario, but particularly a terrorist scenario, is as robust here as any place I've seen in the country," said Napolitano.

Officials say 40 percent of New Yorkers feel they are not prepared for an emergency.