September is National Preparedness Month, sponsored by the U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) to encourage all Americans to take easy steps to prepare for natural disasters and emergencies at home, work, and school. A study conducted by the Ad Council and DHS in 2006 found that 91 percent of respondents said it was “very” or “somewhat” important to be prepared for emergencies, but only 54 percent put together an emergency kit; only 39 percent created an emergency plan; and just 40 percent searched for information about preparedness.
Viewer Tip: Are you prepared? Taking a few simple steps now can help you and your family members stay safe if a natural disaster or other emergency occurs in your area.
- Make an Emergency Kit. Gather enough supplies for at least three days. Some things to include are water, non-perishable food and can opener, a battery-powered or hand-crank radio, flashlight, and first aid kit. Find a complete list of items for your kit: www.ready.gov/america/npm08/getakit.html.
- Make a Family Emergency Plan. Make sure every family member knows who to contact in an emergency. Make sure you have planned for older and disabled family members, and pets. Download a family emergency planner: www.ready.gov/america/makeaplan/index.html.
- Know Your Stuff. Find out what kinds of natural disasters are likely to occur in your area. Know evacuation routes and learn about emergency plans developed by your local or state government.
Visit the State of Illinois' Ready Illinois site for more preparedness resources: www.ready.illinois.gov/
(Sources: Department of Homeland Security. November 14, 2006.”Homeland Security Launches New Ads to Demonstrate Importance of Family Emergency Planning.” http://www.dhs.gov/xnews/releases/pr_1163518483290.shtm; National Preparedness Month 2008. http://www.ready.gov/america/npm08/intro.html)
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