As hurricane season continues, there is no better time to make sure you and your family are prepared. We hit the climatological peak of the Atlantic hurricane season on Sept. 10. Although there have been no hurricanes affecting our area and none currently predicted, recent weather events remind us that conditions can change quickly. It is never too early to prepare or to learn what to do when severe weather strikes.
Each September, the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) celebrates National Preparedness Month, an annual campaign that has encouraged Americans to prepare for emergencies since 2004. The month serves as an important reminder that taking small steps today can make a significant difference when disaster strikes.
This year’s theme, “Americans Stand Ready,” highlights the unity, resilience and resourcefulness that strengthen our communities and our nation. Preparedness is everyone’s responsibility, and emergencies can happen anytime, anywhere, sometimes with little or no warning.
The campaign focuses on three important ways Americans can stand ready:
• Stand ready to uphold our patriotic duty. When individuals and families are prepared and able to care for themselves during an emergency, they help reduce the burden on first responders, allowing these dedicated professionals to focus on those who need assistance most.
• Stand ready to protect family and friends. No one knows your household better than you do. Having a plan in place can help ensure that everyone knows what to do, where to go and how to stay connected when an emergency occurs.
Stand ready to help our communities. Prepared individuals contribute to stronger, more resilient neighborhoods. Whether volunteering, checking on a neighbor, or learning emergency-response skills, everyone has something to contribute.
Four simple ways to stand ready
Throughout September, FEMA’s Ready Campaign is encouraging Americans to take practical, affordable steps toward preparedness.
• Be in the know. Know where to find reliable emergency information before you need it. Consider downloading the FEMA App for emergency safety alerts, preparedness information and other resources. You can find and download the FEMA App to your phone using Google Play for Android users or the App Store for Apple users.
• Make a plan. Every household should have an emergency plan. Include important contact information, designated meeting places and medical information. Make sure everyone in the household understands the plan and knows how to communicate if family members become separated.
• Build a kit. Put together an emergency supply kit containing the essential items your family may need to remain safe and comfortable during an emergency. Consider the specific needs of your household, including medications, important documents, food, water, flashlights and other necessities.
• Be there for your community. Preparedness doesn’t stop at your front door. Volunteering, learning first aid and CPR, and participating in emergency-preparedness training are meaningful ways to strengthen your family and your community. Training opportunities are available through FEMA, the American Red Cross and local emergency management agencies.
Don’t wait for the storm
Hurricane season provides a timely reminder that preparedness is best done before an emergency occurs. You don’t have to accomplish everything at once. Start with one step, make a plan, gather a few emergency supplies, sign up for alerts or learn a new safety skill.
Being prepared isn’t about expecting the worst. It’s about being ready for whatever comes next.
This September, let’s all stand ready for ourselves, our families, our neighbors and our communities. A few minutes of preparation today could make a tremendous difference tomorrow.
Here are a few links that you might find helpful –
• FEMA’s Training and Education Program — www.fema.gov
• American Red Cross — www.redcross.org
Toi N. Degree is family and consumer education agent with North Carolina Cooperative Extension. Contact her at 704-216-8970 or by email at toi_degree@ncsu.edu.
