The March of Dimes urges pregnant women and parents of new babies to be prepared for future emergencies or the need to evacuate from their homes.

"A hurricane or other natural disaster is stressful for everyone, but pregnant women and new parents have special concerns that can be addressed through proper preparation," says Dr. Scott Berns, MD, MPH, of the March of Dimes.  "Being prepared and having a plan in place will save precious time in an emergency and reduce stress."

Pregnant women shold discuss any concerns and their delivery plans with their obstetrician or other perinatal care provider.  Families should follow hurricane readiness guidelines and put together an emergency bag in the event te may need to evacuate quickly.

The March of Dimes chapters and is website www.marchofdimes.com are good sources of information for pregnant women.  The U.S. Centes for Disease Control and Prevention www.cdc.gov aso offers important informton about preparing for a hurricane.

While pregnant women should follow general hurricane preparedness recommendations, they and new mothers also should take special precautions for themselves and their children.