For 38 years, the Federal Emergency Management Agency’s (FEMA) mission has remained to lead America to prepare for, prevent, respond to and recover from disasters with a vision of “A Nation Prepared”.
National Preparedness Month (NPM), recognized each September, provides an opportunity to remind us that we all must prepare ourselves and our families now and throughout the year. This year NPM will focus on planning, with an overarching theme:
Disasters Happen, Prepare Now. Learn How.
Take time to learn lifesaving skills - such as CPR and first aid, check your insurance policies and coverage for the hazards you may face, such as flood, earthquakes, and tornados. Also, know how to take practical safety steps like shutting off water and gas.
Have a family plan. Your family may not be together if a disaster strikes, so it is important to know which types of disaster could affect your area. Know how you’ll contact one another and reconnect if separated. Establish a family meeting place that is familiar and easy to find.
The devastating hurricanes and wildfires of 2017 reminded the nation of the importance of preparing for disasters. Often, we will be the first ones in our communities to take action after a disaster strikes and before first responders arrive, so it is important to prepare in advance to help yourself and your community.
For a complete guide to get you started and assist in your planning go to www.ready.gov.
