Events like the recent flooding in Louisiana, Hurricane Hermine approaching Florida, and Hurricane Lester in the Gulf remind us that weather can change at a moment’s notice.
Disasters don’t always occur when we are together with our family and friends, and so it’s important to take time now to plan what you will do in an emergency. It only takes a few minutes to talk through the greatest risks that can affect where you live, work or go to school.
This September is Nation Preparedness Month. This September and throughout the year here are few actions you can take to get started:
- Make & practice your family emergency plan. The average person does not expect an emergency. It is often a surprise. Make sure you and your family have spoken and practiced your plan for when the unexpected emergency strikes.
- Bookmark a weather website to stay on top of severe weather forcasts. Knowing what is coming is incredibly helpful to planning a safe place to wait out a storm or a safe exit if things get too dangerous.
- Download the FEMA app. The FEMA app has weather alerts for up to five locations, preparedness checklists for road trips and more, open shelter locations and access to speak directly with a FEMA agent, and a place to upload photos that could help emergency responders. The app can help your family and others.
- Share preparedness tips with the #NatlPrep Social Media Toolkit. If you and your family have tried and true methods to emergency survival, share them with the national community with the hashtag #NatlPrep.
- Make a family communication plan. In case you get separated during an emergency and cell phone service is down, you need to have a plan in place on alternative ways of communication. Know where you should meet when emergency strikes.
- Obtain a weather radio. During a storm, when phone lines are down, and television and internet service is not an option, an FM or AM radio is very helpful. It can help you stay on top of weather updates, evacuation statuses, road blockages, and more.
- Volunteer to help others during their emergency. You know you would appreciate people taking the time to reach out and serve your family in shelters and as emergency workers. Do something extra for others like those in Louisiana this week. Volunteer. Donate clothing and supplies. Do something so that others can begin to feel safe again, too.
By having a conversation or making a plan, families can have more confidence and be better prepared when the next event happens.
