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Planning is a daily part of our routine. We plan our work activities, weekend activities and grocery store visits. We plan our children’s schedules and daily tasks. And, without a doubt, endless lists often follow. There is one particular list that deserves to be checked twice. We’re talking about reviewing your emergency preparedness checklist and developing an emergency preparedness plan for your family.
This year the Department of Homeland Security’s Ready Campaign is encouraging everyone to Resolve to be Ready in 2009. While nearly 50 percent of Americans make New Year's resolutions, very few manage to keep them, but this is one resolution that can be easy to keep with Ready’s three simple steps:
1. Get an emergency supply kit.
2. Make a family emergency plan.
3. Be informed about the different types of emergencies that could occur in your area and their appropriate responses.
The Ready Campaign encourages you to take a few extra minutes at the beginning of this new year to plan in case of an emergency. Consider the following questions: Have you spoken to your children’s schools about their shelter-in-place and/or evacuation plans?; Do you know the evacuation plan at work?; If your cell phone was inoperable how would you get in touch with your family?; Do you have a family meeting place and an out-of-town contact? These are just a few of the questions you should consider as you are developing your emergency plan.
Free preparedness resources, such as a Family Emergency Plan template and an Emergency Supply Kit Checklist are just a click away at www.Ready.gov. The Ready Web site also has a special section for kids, ages 8-12, (Ready Kids) and small- to medium-sized businesses (Ready Business). Be sure to check it out – print out your emergency plan template and emergency supply kit list and begin planning with your family today.
Emergencies will happen, but taking action now can help us minimize the impact they will have on our lives. Remember, Now’s the Time. Resolve to be Ready in 2009.
