Los Angeles asks: Are you ready?

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As part of the National Preparedness Month, the Department of Emergency Management hosted an emergency readiness fair at L.A. Live Thursday.

Los Angeles Mayor Antonio Villaraigosa announced that the city will team up with the Red Cross to prepare for disasters.

Red Cross coordinator Nancy Carrillo shared her excitement about the announcement.

"It's a big day for the Red Cross," Carrillo said.

The Red Cross will now have a standing role in disaster relief.

The city wants kids to encourage their parents to plan ahead. Villaraigosa was excited to welcome students from across L.A., including a large and excited group from Hooper Avenue Elementary School.

Deitrich Nelson also attended the fair. He said he is taking a proactive approach to living in the Hollywood Hills. Part of his anxiety stemmed from the recent San Bruno explosion.

"We have one of those huge gas lines near where we live and it's a major concern," Nelson said. "We've contacted the city about it, and we have asked them to check it out."

Officials are also participating in the state-wide Great California Shakeout on Oct. 21.