PORT SAINT LUCIE, Florida/April 6, 2009 - With less than 60 days to go before the start of Hurricane Season 2009, the Annual Red Cross Hurricane Fair has been expanded to become the 15 th Annual Red Cross & Expert Shutters Hurricane, Health, and Safety Fair. "We are expanding our event to include experts and vendors not only in the hurricane preparedness field but also health and safety experts and vendors," said Mary Sawyer, Executive Director, American Red Cross Martin County Chapter. The expansion of the annual event is designed to bring attention to the full spectrum of services and programs offered throughout the Treasure Coast to keep residents and businesses safe and secure during hurricane season and throughout the year.

The 15 th Annual Hurricane, Health, and Safety Fair, sponsored by American Red Cross Martin County Chapter and Expert Shutter Services, Inc., is expected to draw a greater variety of vendors and suppliers of the latest in Hurricane protection products, health care, and safety services. Each year, Red Cross event draws more than 50,000 people.

"Last year we had approximately 50,000 people attend the Hurricane Fair," said Rob Shelt, Director, Disaster Services, American Red Cross Martin County Chapter. "Experts are warning we could be in for a very active hurricane season this year so we are anticipating very good turnout for this year's Hurricane Health and Safety Fair," added Shelt.

The 15 th Annual American Red Cross/Expert Shutters Hurricane, Health, and Safety Fair will be held at the Treasure Coast Square mall on May 30 and 31 during regular mall hours. "Once again we are pleased to help our residents prepare for the upcoming Hurricane Season," said Sawyer. "Our expanded event will feature a wider variety of vendors and government agencies who can provide crucial information and products our residents need to know about and have to prepare, survive and recover from a hurricane while helping them remain prepared and safe throughout the year," added Sawyer.

American Red Cross once again will feature a special section on safety for children. Adults can receive free blood pressure screening both days of the Fair. There also will be free drawings for prizes throughout this two-day must attend event.

Experts are again predicting this Hurricane Season will be an active and destructive one for residents of the Atlantic and Gulf Coast states. Do you know what to do before, during and after a hurricane? Don't gamble with your safety. Mark your calendar to attend the 15th Annual Hurricane, Health, and Safety Fair at the Treasure Coast Square mall May 30 and May 31. Vendors and exhibitors wishing to take part in the 15 th Annual Hurricane Fair should reserve their space now. Space is available on a first-come, first-reserved basis. Contact Rob Shelt at the American Red Cross Martin County Chapter at (772) 287-2002 for additional information.

Your Martin County Chapter of the American Red Cross is funded by local dollars. The chapter receives no federal, state, or local tax dollars to support its local operations. To donate your dollars or time, contact the American Red Cross Martin County Chapter at (772) 287-2002 or visit the Chapter headquarters at 2750 South Kanner Highway, Stuart, Florida, 34994 You may also visit their website at www.martinredcross.org.

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