PREPAREDNESS IS KEY FOR HURRICANE SEASON
MEMA Information Announcement | August 31, 2010

Threat of Hurricane Earl Reminds Families of Importance of Preparedness

The potential threat of Hurricane Earl reinforces the importance that everyone take the proper preparedness steps.  Now is a good time to take to heart the three steps being reinforced by the President, as he proclaimed September as ‘National Preparedness Month’: Prepare a Kit, Have a Plan and Be Aware.

“Every home and business should have a stocked basic emergency supply kit that could be used for any emergency, regardless of the time of year,” states MEMA Acting Director Kurt Schwartz. “Everyone should keep certain items around the house and workplace in the event you are isolated for three to five days without power” Each kit will be unique to each family, but should include a portable radio, flashlight, extra batteries, a supply of non-perishable foods, along with bottled water, a first aid kit, extra prescription medication, and extra food and supplies for infants and pets.

“All families should develop a ‘Family Emergency Communication Plan’ with an ‘outside the area’ contact to help ensure everyone is safe. You should reach out to your local authorities to learn about your community’s potential evacuation routes and the location of possible emergency shelters,” said Schwartz. “It is always important to familiarize yourself with your Community’s Emergency Plans before an emergency situation occurs.”

Also, develop a Disaster Supply Kit ‘Go Bag’, with essentials in case you must evacuate quickly.

2010 Hurricane Preparation and Information
We have collected a variety of hurricane preparedness internet links which offer weather resources, preparedness tips and other hurricane related information. Additional information and documents can be viewed on our Emergency Management webpage.
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