North Central Health District

National Preparedness Month Encourages Community Disaster Readiness

Posted September 10, 2024 by Michael Hokanson

September marks National Preparedness Month, a critical time for communities across the nation to focus on enhancing their readiness for emergencies and disasters.

Sponsored by the Federal Emergency Management Agency, this month emphasizes the importance of taking proactive steps to safeguard ourselves, our families, and our communities against various natural and man-made threats. North Central Health District’s (NCHD) Emergency Preparedness Program encourages all our community members and partners to take this time to prepare and connect before emergencies occur.

“Emergency Preparedness Month is an essential reminder of the need to be proactive in our preparedness efforts,” said Laurice Bentley, NCHD Emergency Preparedness Director. “Using the time we have before a disaster strikes can make a huge difference in how a dangerous situation impacts a household, organization or neighborhood.”

This year’s theme, “Start a Conversation,” highlights the importance of addressing the need for preparation. It may seem like avoiding these topics protects our loved ones from worry and stress, but having an open discussion and getting everyone involved in emergency preparedness can help increase confidence and ability to act when a disaster arises. Use the following suggestions to begin the conversation:

• Set aside a specific time to discuss preparedness and planning.
• Do not feel pressured to have these conversations quickly and ensure people are comfortable having these talks.
• If you’ve already started personal planning, share your experience and encourage others to ask questions or make recommendations.

In addition to promoting open and honest conversations, National Preparedness Month serves as a reminder of the steps we can all take to ensure we are ready when emergencies strike. Taking the following preparedness actions can help to protect yourself, your family and you community when disasters strike:

• Create an Emergency Plan: Develop a comprehensive emergency plan that includes escape routes, communication plans, and a list of important contacts. Ensure that all family members are familiar with the plan and practice regular drills.
• Build an Emergency Kit: Assemble a disaster supply kit with essential items such as non-perishable food, water, medications, a flashlight, batteries, an emergency radio and a first aid kit. Remember to tailor the kit to your specific needs and consider including items for pets. Consider making a separate emergency kit for your car. Remember to review all items and replace anything that has expired.
• Stay Informed: Keep up-to-date with local emergency alerts and warnings. Sign up for community alert systems, follow reliable news sources, and use notification apps to stay informed about potential risks and responses. Have multiple sources of information in the event of any disruptions.
• Prepare Your Home: Make your home more resilient by securing heavy items, reinforcing windows and doors, and ensuring that smoke detectors and carbon monoxide alarms are working properly.
• Engage with Your Community: Participate in local preparedness events and training sessions. Participate in courses teaching first aid and CPR. Join preparedness and response organizations like Central Georgia Medical Reserve Corps. Building connections with neighbors and community organizations can enhance collective preparedness and response efforts.

“By taking simple yet effective steps, building connections, and practicing plans, we can build stronger, more resilient communities that are better equipped to handle emergencies today and tomorrow,” said Bentley.

Throughout September, various organizations, agencies, and community groups will host events and provide resources to help individuals and families prepare for emergencies. Activities include workshops, webinars, and safety fairs. NCHD encourages everyone to take advantage of these opportunities to learn more about emergency preparedness and to share this critical information with others.

For additional resources and tips on how to prepare for emergencies, please visit NCHD52.org/prepare. Learn about National Preparedness Month and more at ready.gov.