September as “National Preparedness Month” and Lincoln-Lancaster County Emergency Management Director Jim Davidsaver is urging all residents to take basic steps to prepare for emergencies in their homes, businesses, schools, and communities.
Recent disasters and the lingering COVID-19 pandemic experienced at the local, state, and national level highlight the need for preparedness.
Davidsaver says September’s social media campaign will emphasize different components of the emergency planning process. “The end result will 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,” Davidsaver says. “If you do not have a plan, now is the time make one. 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.”
Davidsaver offers these tips:
Make A Plan
Talk to your friends and family about how you will communicate before, during and after a disaster. Make sure to update your plan to comply with the Centers for Disease Control recommendations for COVID-19.
Build A Kit
Gather supplies that will last for several days after a disaster for everyone living in your home. Don’t forget to consider the unique needs each person or pet may have in case you have to evacuate quickly.
Prepare for Disasters
Limit the impacts that disasters have on you and your family. Know the risk of disasters in your area and check your insurance coverage. Learn how to make your home stronger in the face of storms and other common hazards. Act fast if you receive a local warning or alert.
Teach Youth About Preparedness
Talk to your kids about preparing for emergencies and what to do in case you are separated. Reassure them by providing information about how they can get involved.
More information on preparedness, emergency kits and planning is available from Ready.gov. People can download the FEMA app 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.