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.

This year’s National Preparedness Month 2022 Theme is: A Lasting Legacy. Prepare for disasters to create a lasting legacy for you and your family.

Make sure your family has a plan and practices it often. Start by making a plan before disasters and emergencies strike. Discuss with your family how you will communicate if there is an emergency and involve your entire household.

This National Preparedness Month, the City Fire Department is reminding you to build your family’s emergency kit. Don’t forget to include:

• Non-perishable food and water that can last several days (Shopping list here)
• Flashlights, radios & extra batteries
• First aid kit

Remember that your disaster preparedness kit will depend on your own needs. Once you take a look at the basic items, consider what unique needs your family might have, such as supplies for pets, babies or seniors. Check the expiration date on your emergency supplies, and replace any old items.

Know Your Risks

Understand the risks you and your family may face. Most communities face many types of hazards. It is important to learn the risks specific to your home and the ways to assess your risks if you are away from home. Know how and when to take action before, during, and after different hazards.

Make a Plan

Make a communication plan and prepare for both evacuating and sheltering. Prepare for your family’s unique needs with customized plans and supplies. In addition, use your social networks to help friends and family members prepare and participate in community-wide disaster preparedness activities. You should gather emergency supplies and secure the information and important documents you will need to start your recovery.

Take Action

Put your plan into action. Be ready and able to face disasters, no matter where you are and when they occur. It is important to get the insurance you need and understand your coverage options. You should make a list of your personal property and its condition and protect your property by considering how to minimize damage. Practice your disaster plans, take advantage of existing alert and warning systems, and explore ways to serve your community.

When disaster strikes, know who to turn to for updates, alerts, and warnings. For more information go to www.ready.gov and sign up to receive local alerts. Make sure you are registered with www.readysbc.org.

The Ready SBC emergency notification system notifies you with critical information quickly in a variety of hazards and situations such as natural and man-made disasters, severe weather, evacuations, major road closures, missing persons and other events happening in your area. You will receive time-sensitive messages wherever you specify you want to receive them, such as your home phone, mobile or business phones, email address and text messages

A City Proclamation, highlighting the importance of National Preparedness Month, will be acknowledged at the September 13 City Council Meeting.