National Preparedness Month is an observance each September to raise awareness about the importance of preparing for disasters and emergencies that could happen at any time. The theme this year will be “A Lasting Legacy.” The life you have built is worth protecting. Prepare for disaster to create a lasting legacy for you and your family.
National Preparedness Month
Step 1: Learn Your Risks & Responses – Be Informed
- Emergency Alerts: You can receive important lifesaving alerts no matter where you are – home, school, or work.
- Wireless Emergency Alerts (WEA) – The Federal Communications Commission has addressed many questions about WEA you might have.
- NOAA Weather Radio – NOAA Weather Radio All Hazards is a nationwide network of radio stations broadcasting continuous weather information directly from the nearest National Weather Service office. NOAA broadcasts official Weather Service warnings, watches, forecasts and other hazard information 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.
- Social Media: Some weather & safety information can also be relayed through social media. However, please remember this is NOT an official means of receiving important lifesaving information.
- Natural Disasters: Know which natural disasters can occur in your area and how to prepare and stay safe.
- Know your Hazards – FEMA has outlined some of the biggest hazards we witness here in America.
- Hazardous Weather Awareness and Preparedness Information – You can find your local forecast office by entering in your City and State in the search bar and selecting your local office. To see all the hazards and conditions in your current area, click on your local office and it will take you to their home page within weather.gov.
Step 2: Make a Plan
It is important to make a family emergency plan that can be put into action as soon as disaster strikes. Make sure to include plans for children, seniors, disabled, and don’t forget pets!
Step 3: Build a Supply Kit
A supply kit is a must when planning for potential disasters. You need to make sure you and your family have the necessary food and supplies to sustain you until the power returns or help arrives. It is also important to keep the kit maintained by keeping food/water fresh and supplies working properly. It is typically best to store the kit, along with any pet supplies, in a closet or the basement.
- Pack a small bottle of hand sanitizer in your child’s backpack.
- Know the emergency plan for your child’s school and/or childcare facility and practice with your child.
- Make sure the school has your updated emergency contact information.
- Monitor the news and weather for incidents that could cause school closures.
Step 4: Get Involved Find opportunities to support community preparedness.
There are many ways to get involved before disaster strikes. So, ask yourself, “How can I help?”
For more information on Disasters and Emergencies and how to prepare, visit: Disasters and Emergencies | Ready.gov
Autumn Safety
Autumn signals a return to cooler temperatures, more time outdoors, and preparations. Now is the time to make sure homes and families are ready for the upcoming holidays and winter weather both indoors and out. Check out some tips and tricks for getting your home and family ready for the upcoming fall season.
- Test your smoke alarms and carbon monoxide detectors for proper function. If needed, replace the batteries.
- Check the seals on doors and windows. Repair or replace weather stripping to prevent drafts and save energy.
- Have fireplaces and chimneys inspected. If needed, have your chimney swept to prevent potential fire hazards.
- Firewood should be stored at least 15 feet from your home. Large amounts of wood should not be stored in the home, due to the risk of termite infestation.
- Clean your gutters. Leaves and debris build up can damage roofs and homes.
- Inspect your roof for loose shingles and damage.
- Be careful when doing yardwork. Use rakes that are the right length and wear eye and hearing protection. Hydrate and apply sunscreen. It’s easy to over-exert when temperatures are moderate.
- Once summer ends, your lawn equipment will probably need to go into hibernation all winter. Make sure it is store properly, empty unused fuel from the lawnmowers.
For more information on Autumn Safety, visit: Fall Safety (weather.gov)
Driving In Fall Weather
Each year, the transition from summer to autumn brings the much-anticipated return of colorful foliage, sweater weather, football season and all things pumpkin. However, the beginning of fall also comes with potential driving risks, including slippery roads, decreased daylight, fog, and sun glare. Autumn weather can be unpredictable and conditions can change drastically within a matter of minutes.
Prepare yourself and your vehicle for the changing seasons with the following tips to help you drive safely in the fall.
Night
- Keep headlights clean and in proper working order.
- Drive slowly if you live in an area with deer.
- If you see a deer cross the road, expect others to follow.
Fog
- Set headlights to low beam instead of high.
- Slow down and leave plenty of space between you and the car in front of you.
Rain
- Remove leaves from your windshield.
- Replace windshield wiper blades if they show any signs of wear.
- Drive slowly. Roads can be as slick as driving on ice.
- If you start to hydroplane, steer straight and gently release the gas pedal until you feel the tires touch the road again.
Leaves
- Never park on a pile of leaves. This may cause a fire.
- Falling leaves make roadways slick, hide potholes, and cover lane markings.
Glare
- To combat glare, clean your windshield inside and out to remove any dust particles, streaks or smudges.
- Avoid using washing and waxing products that increase your car’s shine.
- Keep a pair of sunglasses in your vehicle at all times to protect your eyes from the sun’s rays.
For more information on driving safely in Fall weather, visit: Advice on How to Drive Safely in the Fall
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