September is National Preparedness Month, sponsored by the Federal Emergency Management Agency’s (FEMA) Ready Campaign, to encourage Americans to prepare for disasters and emergencies. This year’s theme is Americans Stand Ready. Being ready means doing your part to ensure the safety and good health of you and your family as well as your neighbors and community.
National Preparedness Month reminds everyone that being prepared for disasters and emergencies can mean the difference between life and death, and the majority of that preparedness simply involves making a plan for you and your family.
Create an emergency plan, one your entire family is aware of.
- Pick a safe place to meet
- Assign responsibilities
- Practice how to leave safely
- Make a plan on how to stay in touch
Keep emergency contact cards in everyone’s wallet and/or backpack, including out-of-state contacts who may be easier to reach during a local emergency.
Make a plan for people with disabilities who might need additional ways to stay safe.
Be in the know.
- Sign up for alerts from your community’s warning system, and download the FEMA app for your tablet and/or smartphone.
- Have evacuation plans in place
- Be aware of common household injuries, such as falls, poisoning and burns, and how to treat them
- Know the evacuation and reunification plan of your child’s school or childcare center and ensure these facilities have your most up-to-date contact information and that of your child’s emergency contacts
Check your batteries.
- Flashlights
- Smoke alarms
- Portable chargers
Build a kit with emergency supplies and don’t forget about special supplies for those with disabilities and even supplies for your pets, including a collar with ID tags.
Whether it’s navigating your healthcare needs or weathering an emergency, the EWTF urges you to be prepared and take control of your good health and safety. Visit www.Ready.gov for some helpful hints on being prepared and safe.