Take Control with Emergency Preparedness Planning

National Preparedness Month is recognized each September to encourage community emergency planning. Floods, wildfires and hurricanes remind us to prepare for the unexpected. We should take control with emergency preparedness planning.

The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) website at www.ready.gov has all sorts of preparedness resources. The Preparedness campaign each September has a specific theme to help drive home the points to remember. This year’s theme, “Take Control in 1, 2, 3,” encourages everyone, especially older adults and their caregivers, to become more prepared in three simple steps.

1. Assess your needs. 

Everyone has unique needs. There are several factors that can affect the steps you need to take to prepare yourself and those you care for. Whether you care for pets, have children, have a medical condition or a disability, it is important to know what your family will need to stay safe.

2. Make a plan.

Once you’ve assessed your needs, you can plan for what you will do, where you will go and what to bring if a disaster strikes. Your emergency supply kit should include items that meet your individual needs. Items might include medicines, medical supplies, batteries and chargers.

3. Engage your support network.

Get to know your neighbors because they, along with your family and friends, can be a support network before, during and after a disaster by providing emotional and practical support. Make sure at least one person in your support network has an extra key to your home, knows where you keep your emergency supplies, and knows how to use lifesaving equipment or administer medicine.

Cultris Security can be part of your support network! Let us help keep your property safe with a customized security or fire alarm system. Contact us online or call us at 281-506-8466.

Image from FEMA at www.ready.gov