September is National Preparedness Month, and National Capital Region Emergency Preparedness Council, chaired by Frank Principi of Prince William County, urges the region’s residents to prepare themselves, their families, and their businesses for potential emergency situations.

Emergency Preparedness Council Chairman Frank Principi on National Preparedness Month from COG Video on Vimeo.

Area officials are continually working to protect our local communities. The EPC, comprised of 60 organizations across the District of Columbia, Maryland, and Virginia, aid in preparing for, responding to, and recovering from a wide range of disasters that could occur in the region. This year, the EPC has specifically focused on improving the region’s capacity to respond to bomb threats and cyberattacks, and are working to improve radio communications and training for first responders.

This month, take some time to prepare yourself and your loved ones for emergencies. Visit www.ready. gov/ for ideas on how to get started. 

In addition, here are some local preparedness resources:

• Residents can sign up for free text alerts from their county/city at www.Capitalert.gov
• Follow the Metropolitan Area Transportation Operations Coordination on Twitter @MATOC