September Is “National Preparedness Month”

LINCOLN–(KFOR Sept. 7) Lincoln-Lancaster County Emergency Management (LLCEM) Director Jim Davidsaver urges all community members to observe September as “National Preparedness Month.”  The U.S. Department of Homeland Security’s “Ready” Campaign sponsors this annual event to remind everyone that preparing for emergencies and disasters can keep them, their families, and their communities safe.

The 2024 campaign focuses on preparing Asian American, Native Hawaiian, and Pacific Islander (AANHPI) communities for emergencies and disasters.   This campaign provides Lancaster County the opportunity to further its strategic priority of fostering a welcoming and diverse community by providing resources and information to all communities within Lancaster County and encouraging all residents, including those new to our community, to prepare for disasters.  Davidsaver emphasizes, “The focus of this year’s campaign ensures our preparedness efforts are inclusive and address the unique needs of all our residents. This approach strengthens our entire community’s resilience.”

Davidsaver encourages residents to visit FEMA’s https://www.ready.gov/ready-your-language for comprehensive preparedness information available in multiple languages. He also recommends downloading the FEMA app for instant access to emergency planning resources.

To prepare for emergencies and disasters, Davidsaver offers these tips:

1. Make A Plan
   Discuss with your family and friends how you will communicate before, during, and after a disaster. Consider using family group chat apps for efficient communication.
2. Build A Kit
   Assemble supplies to last at least three days post-disaster for each household member. Account for special needs and pets. Have the kit ready to go in case of quick evacuation. Regularly inspect and update your kit.
3. Prepare for Disasters
   Understand local disaster risks and verify your insurance coverage. Learn how to fortify your home against common hazards. Be ready to respond quickly to local warnings or alerts.
4. Educate Youth on Preparedness
   Engage children in emergency preparedness discussions and planning. Provide reassurance by involving them in the process.

Davidsaver adds, “A NOAA all-hazards radio remains an effective tool for early notification of potential emergencies.  Timely alerts allow individuals to take necessary protective measures.”

Beyond the month of September, LLCEM continually strives to ensure Lancaster County is a Ready Community through the following ongoing efforts:

1. New American Task Force
   LLCEM continues its involvement with the New American Task Force (NATF), supporting refugees and immigrants in the community. This aligns well with the 2024 National Preparedness Month theme.
2. Severe Weather Preparedness
   LLCEM has implemented several measures, including annual severe weather awareness and storm spotter training sessions open to the public, the deployment of advanced weather monitoring systems to improve early warning notifications and capabilities, and collaboration with the National Weather Service to provide timely, accurate information.
3. School Safety Program
   LLCEMA collaborates with Lincoln Public Schools and Lancaster County school districts to implement comprehensive emergency preparedness programs.

Davidsaver expressed gratitude to the Lancaster County Board for its support, the Nebraska Emergency Management Agency’s Community Outreach Unit for promoting preparedness, and local media outlets for their commitment to keeping residents informed during severe weather and emergencies.

Lincoln-Lancaster County Emergency Management is responsible for coordinating county, city, private sector, and volunteer services to ensure continuity of operations during disasters or major emergencies.

Follow Emergency Management on X at LancasterCoEMA and on Facebook at Lincoln-Lancaster County Emergency Management, Lincoln, NE.