September is National Preparedness Month

09/04/2008
National Preparedness Month is an opportunity to raise awareness about the importance of emergency preparedness and to encourage all Americans to take steps to better prepare themselves and the community for emergencies before they happen. Douglas County is one of the more than 2,700 national, regional, state, and local organizations (which is the largest amount to date) who are participating in National Preparedness Month. Douglas County is subject to a number of potential natural disasters such as fires, flooding, tornadoes, winter storms, and heat waves. There are also hazards from nuclear, biological, or chemical accidents, or acts of terrorism. Terrorism may take on many forms, including an intentional release of biological, chemical or radiological agent. In addition, a fast-spreading infectious disease may cause our health care systems to be overwhelmed, and large portions of our workforce may be too sick to come to work. Many individuals remain unprepared for these disasters which can interrupt daily lives. Individuals, who are able, need to be prepared to take care of themselves and their families following an emergency, so that first responders can focus on those who need assistance most. This is the time, each year, when everyone should ask the question, "Am I Ready1/2" Individuals can prepare themselves and their families for emergencies by taking simple steps such as organizing an emergency supply kit, making a personal preparedness plan, becoming informed about different threats, and attending the Annual Preparedness Fair sponsored by Douglas County Emergency Management, Lawrence/Douglas County Health Department and the Roger Hill Volunteer Center held on Saturday, September 27 from 10-noon at South Junior High where a broad range of exhibitors will be on hand to answer your questions about preparing yourself and your family for any disaster. Join us in becoming a community that is disaster aware and disaster prepared. Therefore, I proclaim, September as National Preparedness Month!

Related Links:
Douglas County Emergency Management Website - http://www.douglas-county.com/depts/em/em_home.aspx
Ready.gov - http://www.ready.gov

Media Contact:
Teri Smith, Director
Emergency Management Department
785-838-2460
tsmith@douglas-county.com