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September is National Preparedness Month
Every year, hundreds of natural disasters—ranging from blizzards and wildfires to hurricanes, tornadoes and flooding—wreak havoc on families, homes and entire communities across America. Often times, people are reminded to take action to prepare before these events happen, but sometimes they occur without warning. Our lives can be changed in an instant by a number of different emergencies, and we are constantly reminded of this each time we watch the news.
Yet, too many Americans have not taken steps to prepare. There are simple steps each of us can take to prepare before an emergency happens. Emergencies will happen, but taking action now can help us minimize the impact they will have on our lives.
National Preparedness Month Materials
The U.S. Department of Homeland Security has prepared publications to help everyone understand what actions they can take today to be prepared. Below are a few examples of publications:
These materials and many others can be downloaded at no cost at http://www.ready.gov/america/publications/allpubs.html. Individuals or organizations who would like to order printed copies of Ready publications can do so by calling 1-800-BE-READY. Multiple copies can also be requested by calling the FEMA Warehouse at 1-800-480-2520.
What is Ohio doing?
During National Preparedness Month, the Ohio Department of Public Safety will partner with the U.S. Department of Homeland Security, national, state and local organizations to highlight the importance of emergency preparedness and promote community involvement through a wide variety of events and activities.
The Ohio Department of Public Safety and U.S. Department of Homeland Security are asking all families, schools and businesses to prepare for all types of emergencies, from natural disasters to possible terrorist attacks. The Ohio Department of Mental Health encourages the behavioral health community to participate in National Preparedness Month events and activities that will be taking place throughout Ohio during the month of September.
The month of September has been divided into four areas of focus weeks:
- Week 1 (September 1-8) will focus on Back to School and Ready Kids. A statewide kickoff event will be conducted in Cuyahoga and Scioto counties.
- Week 2 (September 9-15) will focus on Business Preparedness and Ready Business. A statewide kickoff event will be conducted in Franklin County. National Patriot’s Day is September 11.
- Week 3 (September 16-22) will focus on Multicultural Preparedness, which will coincide with the beginning of Hispanic Heritage Month. A statewide kickoff event will be conducted in Lucas County.
- Week 4 (September 23-30) will focus on Home and Family Preparedness and Ready America. A statewide kickoff event will be conducted in Butler County.
More information on National Preparedness Month activities and materials is available at www.ready.gov or www.ready.ohio.gov.