National Preparedness Month
After the tragedy of September 11, 2001, the US government and FEMA, the Federal Emergency Management Agency, designated September as National Preparedness Month. They set aside this time to remind citizens to prepare to respond to take care of themselves in the event of a natural hazard or man-made disaster, whether local, regional or national.
FEMA recommends that every family do three key things: “get an emergency supply kit, make a family emergency plan and to be informed about the different types of emergencies that could occur and the appropriate responses.”
A host of varied Incidents Could Create a Disaster: an active shooter, an avalanche, a cyberattack, an earthquake, extreme heat, a flood, a hurricane, a landslide, a novel pandemic, a nuclear explosion, a power outage, a thunderstorm/lightning or hail, a tornado, a tsunami, a volcano, a wildfire, or a winter storm. Each of these hazard could create a life-threatening situation. Learn which is more likely in your specific area, or which could occur nationwide. The link above will provide more information on each topic.
Each family should be able to care for themselves for a MINIMUM of 72 hours in a disaster situation, as well to communicate within themselves and others with an Emergency Communication Plan.
This list is just a STARTING POINT. In addition, look at the unique needs of your family: children, elders, those with disabilities, and pets.
Consider two types of kits: a full kit in the home for the entire family, and a second smaller portable kit for each individual in their vehicle and/or workplace. Children should also have some survival essentials in their daily backpack. This secondary kit can help you get back to your home or another safer location.
You may also wish to Safeguard Critical Documents and Valuables, such as legal documents, health records, financial and insurance papers. Consider a portable waterproof/fireproof safe or a password protected flashdrive. See the link above for details.
There is a host of valuable information at the Ready.gov website on how you can ready yourself and your family, assist your community, and be certain your business is ready.
Are you ready?
