September is National Preparedness Month (NPM) and Franklin County Emergency Management & Homeland Security (FCEM&HS) encourages residents to plan and prepare for all hazards before they happen. The month serves as a timely reminder that emergencies can happen anytime, anywhere without advance notice. The time to prepare is before a disaster happens.
This year’s theme is “Prepared, Not Scared.” The campaign emphasizes the need for all residents to know how to respond and what to do should disaster strike. Citizens are reminded to be informed about the top risks facing Franklin County and register for ALERT Franklin County at www.alertfranklincounty.org to receive important information and weather alerts on their mobile devices. FCEM&HS encourages everyone to create and practice an emergency plan that includes all family members and pets, build a disaster supply kit, and get involved by learning lifesaving skills - such as CPR and first aid.
“Now is the time to ensure your family, pets and home are prepared for all types of emergencies," said Jeffrey J. Young, Director of Franklin County Emergency Management & Homeland Security. "Residents should have a plan, know what to do and how they will communicate with their family and friends before disaster strikes."
Throughout National Preparedness Month, FCEM&HS will feature a different preparedness theme each week on Facebook and Twitter. Weekly themes include:
- Save Early for Disaster Costs
- Make a Plan to Prepare for Disasters
- Teach Youth to Prepare for Disasters
- Get Involved in Your Community’s Preparedness
As part of National Preparedness Month, FCEM&HS encourages parents to include the whole family in the planning process. Young children and teens can learn how to become better prepared, build an emergency supply kit and become a "Disaster Master" by playing online games at www.ready.gov/kids/games.