Established in 2004 National Preparedness Month is observed every September in the United States.  During September Americans are encouraged to take steps toward preparing for emergencies in their homes, businesses, schools, and communities.   Since 2001 the federal government has urged all citizens to make their own survival preparations.  One can realize the need for personal preparedness when one compares the number of residents and visitors in a given area with the number of first responders in the same place.  During a widespread emergency, such as a hurricane, there will not be enough first responders to care for everyone and with neighboring towns facing the same emergency mutual aid would have to come from out of the area or even out of the region. Some may remember back in 2010 when an ice storm knocked out electric power in some sections of town for 7 days as electric crews came from Illinois and Georgia to make repairs.  Some may remember back when we were told to have food and supplies for three days until help would arrive.   In recent emergencies government officials have told citizens to prepare with supplies for 7 to 10 days.  Preparedness tips are readily available online and most of the most comprehensive sites are listed on this website by clicking on the “BE PREPARED” link at the top of the page and on the lower right-hand side.   An easy way to find out what it takes to prepare is to take a look at what FEMA lists as the 12 Ways to Prepare.

  1. Sign up for Alerts and Warnings
  2. Make a Plan
  3. Save for a Rain Day
  4. Practice Emergency Drills
  5. Test Family Communication Plan
  6. Safeguard Documents
  7. Plan with Neighbors
  8. Make your Home Safer
  9. Know Evacuation Routes
  10. Assemble or Update Supplies
  11. Get Involved in Your Community
  12. Document and Insure Property