Every September, the U.S. Department of Homeland Security sponsors National Preparedness Month, a nationwide effort to encourage Americans to take simple steps to prepare for emergencies in their homes, businesses, and schools. The goal is to increase public awareness about the importance of preparing for emergencies and to encourage individuals to take action.
That action involves taking some simple steps to prepare you and your family for emergencies:
• Create a family emergency plan. To develop one, ask yourself some important questions. “In the event of an emergency, do we have everyone's contact numbers and an out-of-town contact?” “Is there a designated place for everyone to meet outside of the home and neighborhood?” Only you can answer these questions and develop an emergency plan that will suit your family.
• Create an emergency kit. It should include basic items like water, food, battery-powered radio, flashlight, and a first aid kit. It should also include personal items such as medications and copies of important family documents.
• Become involved in your community’s preparedness efforts. Citizen Corps provides residents with opportunities to prepare, train, participate in community exercises, and support local emergency responders.
• Learn more. You can find lists of items to put in your kit and templates to help create emergency plans at the U.S. Department of Homeland Security's special
National Preparedness Month website.
SOURCE:
www.ready.gov
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08/13/08
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