National Preparedness Month: Preparing for frequent and intense weather events
Climate change is impacting more families across the U.S, last year over 40% of Americans were living in a county struck by a climate disaster. We are experiencing significant wildfires, more extreme storms, heavier rain, higher temperatures and stronger hurricanes. In the past 20 years the U.S actually experienced more climate disasters than any other country.
September is National Preparedness Month and The American Red Cross of Colorado and Wyoming requests everyone to get ready by making preparedness a priority. In our area we are seeing a larger number of wildfires, mudslides and flooding. Disasters can happen anywhere, anytime, take action to get prepared by visiting http://redcross.org/prepare.
National Preparedness Month Activities
In observance of National Preparedness Month and to help our communities become better prepared for emergencies, we are hosting a month-long series of community events and classes during September.
HOW TO GET PREPARED Help keep your family safe by taking three actions to:
1) Get a Kit. Learn the essential supplies to put in your family’s survival kit.
2) Make a Plan. Plan effectively for you and your family in case of an emergency.
3) Be Informed. Understand which disasters are likely to occur in your area and how to stay safe.
- First, build your emergency kit with a gallon of water per person, per day, non-perishable food, a flashlight and a battery-powered radio. Also include a first aid kit, medications, supplies for infants or pets, a multi-purpose tool and personal hygiene items. And don’t forget to add copies of important papers, cell phone chargers, blankets, maps of the area and emergency contact information.
- Next, plan what to do in case you are separated from your family during an emergency and what to do if you have to evacuate. Make sure to coordinate your plan with your child’s school, your work and your community’s emergency plans.
- Finally, plan to stay informed by finding out what emergency situations may occur where you live, work and go to school, how local officials will contact you during a disaster and how you will get important information, such as evacuation orders
Anyone Can be Red Cross Ready
Planning ahead is important- Some people may need extra attention during an emergency. There might be additional considerations to take into account as part of your emergency planning, it is crucial to be aware of your household’s needs.
Emergencies can be a stressful and frightening experience for adults and even more so for children. Take time to speak with your kids about preparing for common emergencies, how to stay safe and what to expect. Providing age-appropriate information and acknowledging their natural feelings can help children feel less anxious. For resources visit Teaching Kids about Emergency Preparedness for more information.
Older adults or people with mobility, hearing, learning or seeing disabilities may need to create a support network of people that can help during an emergency. Create a plan that takes into account your capabilities, any help you may need and who can provide it, especially if you need to evacuate or if the power goes out for several days.
Help get your community get prepared during National Preparedness Month and be ready to help your loved ones and neighbors by volunteering, donating blood or learning lifesaving skills. Visit redcross.org to learn more.
Red Cross volunteers play critical roles in their local communities, including helping families affected by
home fires and other disasters, supporting blood collections or serving our military members, veterans and their families.
You can also sign up for a first aid, CPR or other classes available to be prepared in emergency situations. Learn lifesaving skills so you can help people in a crisis until medical professionals arrive.
Red Cross Wildfire Safety for Colorado and Wyoming. Colorado Volunteer, Jackie Rodriguez, narrates 5 pro tips for getting out safely. Video & Production by Colorado Volunteer, Janet Koelling.
National Preparedness Month Activities
In observance of National Preparedness Month and to help our communities become better prepared for emergencies, we are hosting a month-long series of community events and classes during September.