WRIGHT-PATTERSON AIR FORCE BASE, Ohio – National Preparedness Month is celebrated every September to raise awareness about the importance of preparing for disasters and emergencies that could occur at any time. The theme for 2023 is “Taking Control in 1, 2, 3”.
In support of National Preparedness Month, the Wright-Patterson Air Force Base Office of Emergency Management will host an information booth inside the Base Exchange on Sept. 15 from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. Stop by to meet the emergency management flight and spin the wheel for free. Preparedness pricing to help you get started on your emergency kit.
The campaign’s goal is to prepare older adults for disasters, particularly those in communities disproportionately affected by all-hazards events, which continue to threaten the nation. Topics include planning for disasters that may occur in your area, making a plan to help people with disabilities, and obtaining benefits such as Social Security electronically since a disaster can disrupt postal service for days or weeks.
Since disasters can strike anywhere and at any time, a good start for all families is to have a written plan in advance. Consider your family’s specific needs, determine how you will contact each other or a meeting point in the event of separation. Everyone in the family should also know evacuation routes and make sure your children know important phone numbers.
In addition to having a plan, every family should put together an emergency kit. It should contain everything you will need to survive for several days and include basic necessities such as food, water, and medical care items. Everyone is encouraged to consider your family’s unique needs. Include supplies that pets, seniors, and people with disabilities might need in an emergency.
At a minimum, the Federal Emergency Management Agency reminds everyone to include nonperishable food and water that can last several days, flashlights, radios, extra batteries and a first aid kit. It is also strongly recommended to keep a NOAA weather radio, download the FEMA app, and receive alerts from the National Weather Service.
There are many resources available to help your family prepare. The Air Force Be Ready web page at www.BeReady.af.mil and FEMA www.Loan.gov will be useful. For more information about seniors, go to www.ready.gov/older-adults.
For more information, contact your unit emergency management representative or the WPAFB Emergency Management Office at 937-257-3634.