National Preparedness Month is observed each September to raise awareness about the importance of preparing for disasters and emergencies that could happen at any time. This year’s theme theme urges us to “Take Control in 1,2,3”. New Kent County will focus on helping you and your family be ready for the impacts we are mostly to face, planning for all members of your family and household with new topics each week of September.
This week let’s look at the three basics important in most emergencies and disasters:
1. Be in the know. HELP US reach you. New Kent ALERT, powered by Everbridge, is a web-based Mass Notification System that enables New Kent County to issue time-sensitive emergency warnings and emergency information updates to residents. Visit New Kent's Registration / Opt-In site to sign-up today.
2. Be prepared to withstand interruptions to power. What resources (food, medicines, phone chargers and other communication tools, lighting, medical equipment) are essential for you and your family? There are numerous options from whole house to small generators, back up chargers, battery operated lanterns and lights, battery operated radios, etc. BE SURE TO PURCHASE WHAT YOU NEED NOW – DON’T WAIT UNTIL THE LAST MINUTE WHEN SUPPLIES RUN OUT.
3. Be prepared to survive a full week on your own. Downed trees, and utility poles and lines can block roads cutting you off from being able to travel from home. Clearing debris to open roads will be a priority but it takes time. Last minute shoppers will have exhausted supplies of basic foods and other items and conditions may delay suppliers from being able to deliver additional resources. This includes fueling your vehicles. REMEMBER THE UNIQUE NEEDS OF EACH MEMBER OF YOUR FAMILY, INCLUDING PETS.
For more information on how to prepare your family, go to:
Ready.gov
VDEM
Red Cross
AARP
CDC
