SEPTEMBER IS “NATIONAL PREPAREDNESS MONTH”

Lincoln, NE – (August 31, 2022) – Lincoln-Lancaster County Emergency Management Director Jim Davidsaver today urged all community members to observe September as “National Preparedness Month”. The U.S. Department of Homeland Security’s “Ready” Campaign sponsors National Preparedness Month to encourage Americans to take basic steps to prepare for emergencies in their homes, businesses, schools, and communities. Recent disasters and the lingering COVID-19 pandemic experienced at the local, state, and national level highlight the need for preparedness.

The theme for 2022 is “A Lasting Legacy”. The life you’ve built is worth protecting. Prepare for disasters to create a lasting legacy for you and your family. Davidsaver said September’s social media campaign will emphasize different components of the emergency planning process. The end result will promote and foster community-wide preparedness, resilience and continuity of operations.

All residents are encouraged to assemble an emergency supply kit and develop a family emergency plan.  “Every individual and family should have a plan to deal with natural or man-made emergencies,” Davidsaver said. “If you do not have a plan, now is the time make one. If you do have a plan, review and update it at least once a year. Include an evacuation plan so you are ready if you are forced to leave your home on short notice.”

Davidsaver offered these tips:

Make A Plan

Talk to your friends and family about how you will communicate before, during and after a disaster. Make sure to update your plan to comply with the Centers for Disease Control recommendations for COVID-19.

Build A Kit

Gather supplies that will last for several days after a disaster for everyone living in your home.  Don’t forget to consider the unique needs each person or pet may have in case you have to evacuate quickly.

Prepare for Disasters

Limit the impacts that disasters have on you and your family.  Know the risk of disasters in your area and check your insurance coverage. Learn how to make your home stronger in the face of storms and other common hazards. Act fast if you receive a local warning or alert.

Teach Youth About Preparedness

Talk to your kids about preparing for emergencies and what to do in case you are separated. Reassure them by providing information about how they can get involved.

Davidsaver said more information on preparedness, emergency kits and planning is available from Ready.gov.  People can download the FEMA app for instant access to a wide array of preparedness information. A NOAA all-hazards radio is a great tool to alert and inform families of potential emergencies. Early and timely notification allows individuals to take necessary steps to protect themselves.

Davidsaver extended thanks to the Lancaster County Board for its resolution recognizing National Preparedness Month and to the Nebraska Emergency Management’s (NEMA) Community Outreach Unit for its ongoing efforts promoting preparedness. He also thanked local media outlets for their commitment to keep community residents informed during severe weather and emergency situations in and around Lancaster County.

Lincoln-Lancaster County Emergency Management is responsible for facilitating the continuation of government operations in times of disaster or major emergency. It coordinates county, city, private sector, and volunteer services to facilitate and enable continuity of operations countywide.

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