National Preparedness Month
September is National Preparedness Month, which raises the importance of being prepared for emergencies such as severe storms, natural disasters, environmental emergencies and more.
Here are some helpful tips:
Know the difference between a tornado warning and a tornado watch. A warning means a tornado is happening or is imminent. Take shelter immediately if a warning is issued. A watch means a tornado is possible. Keep an eye on local television and radio stations for information and know where you’ll take shelter if you have to.
Turn around, don’t drown. If you approach a flooded path, roadway or walkway, don’t continue through it. If you are already on high ground during a flood, stay where you are.
Update your emergency supplies. Make sure you have these supplies in your disaster supplies kit for power outages: water, food, battery-powered radio, flashlight, first-aid kit, extra batteries, dust mask, plastic sheeting, wrench or pliers, moist towelettes, garbage bags and plastic ties for personal sanitation, manual can opener, local maps, cell phone with charger and backup battery
Install natural gas detectors in your home. Carbon monoxide is deadly, colorless and odorless. Protect your family by installing detectors in your home. If you live in an apartment or rental home, talk to your landlord about how you can turn off the gas in the case of an emergency.
Be winter ready. Winter will be here again before we know it. Put together an emergency kit for your vehicle with these items: jumper cables, flares or a reflective triangle, ice scraper, car charger, cat litter or sand for better tire traction, an extra set of warm clothes, water and non-perishable food.
Learn more about emergency preparedness by visiting www.ready.gov
Feel free to reach out to Phil Lohmeyer (District Disaster Response Coordinator) for more information or to assist your church in being better prepared to serve your community before, during, or after a disaster.
Phone number: 740.627.0670 Email: [email protected]