The Oklahoma Office of Homeland Security is calling on all Oklahomans to get "Red Dirt Ready" as part of a new emergency preparedness initiative.

Citizens across the state are encouraged to log on to the Red Dirt Ready Web site to answer a few simple questions and learn how to be prepared for any crisis. The site can be accessed at tulsaworld.com/reddirtready .

Kerry Pettingill, Oklahoma homeland security director, said in a written statement, "The safety of Oklahomans is always our top priority, whether it's during a natural disaster or a man-made tragedy."

Pettingill said the agency's goal is to make sure everyone is educated on how to prepare for and respond appropriately in an emergency.

Those who visit the Web site will find information in categories such as personal preparedness, youth education and neighborhood security.

Questionnaires help visitors review their preparedness and guide them toward how to help others through volunteering and other opportunities.

"We want people to learn about the great programs that help keep our communities safe," Pettingill said. "It's vital for schools, businesses, neighborhoods and households to plan ahead and be prepared. It's going to take everyone's involvement to get Oklahoma Red Dirt Ready."

According to Pettingill, the phrase "Red Dirt Ready" is a tribute to the enduring spirit of Oklahomans to pull together and face adversity "head-on."

The Oklahoma Office of Homeland Security is the state administrative agency for U.S. Department of Homeland Security funding. To date, the state has been awarded more than $171 million in U.S. Department of Homeland Security grant funding.