September Is “National Preparedness Month”
Published on August 31, 2021
Lincoln-Lancaster County Emergency Management Director Jim Davidsaver today urged all community members to observe September as “National Preparedness Month”. The U.S. Department of Homeland Security’s “Ready” Campaign sponsors National Preparedness Month to encourage Americans to take simple steps to prepare for emergencies in their homes, businesses, schools, and communities.
The theme for 2021 is “Prepare to Protect.” Davidsaver said each week in September will focus on a different component of the emergency planning process. Davidsaver said the campaign is designed to promote and foster community-wide preparedness, resilience, and continuity of operations. All residents are encouraged to assemble an emergency supply kit and develop a family emergency plan.
“Every individual and family should have a plan to deal with natural or man-made emergencies. If you do not have a plan, now is the time make one,” Davidsaver said. “If you do have a plan, review and update it at least once a year. Include an evacuation plan so you are ready if you are forced to leave your home on short notice. Give careful consideration to how COVID-19 may affect your plan.”
Recent disasters and the lingering COVID-19 pandemic experienced at the local, state, and national level emphasize the need for preparedness. Davidsaver offered these tips:
- A family preparedness kit should include a family-sized supply of food and water as well as essential medicines and first aid supplies. Stock a minimum of a 3-day supply. Plan for all members of your household including pets.
- A family emergency response plan should be specific and emphasize communication among family members and external sources of information such as media.
Davidsaver said more information on emergency kits and plans is available online from many sources including ready.gov. People can download the FEMA app at fema.gov for instant access to a wide array of preparedness information. A NOAA all-hazards radio is a great tool to alert and inform families of potential emergencies. Early and timely notification allows individuals to take necessary steps to protect themselves.
Davidsaver thanked the Nebraska Emergency Management’s Citizen Corps Council for promoting National Preparedness Month. He also thanked local media outlets for their commitment to keep community residents informed during emergency situations in and around Lancaster County.
The weekly topics for National Preparedness Month are:
- September 1 through 4: Make a Plan
- September 5 through 11: Build a Kit
- September 12 through 18: Prepare for Disasters
- September 19 through 25: Teach Youth About Preparedness
For more information on National Preparedness Month, visit ready.gov/september.