September is National Preparedness Month and the Metropolitan Washington Council of Governments (COG) and its member governments are encouraging everyone in the region to be prepared for emergencies at home, at work, and when traveling. The 2019 theme is “Prepared, Not Scared” and promotes family and community disaster and emergency planning now and throughout the year.

 

“Emergency preparedness is a responsibility that is shared across individuals and households, the private and non-profit sectors, community organizations, and all levels of government,” said Prince William County Emergency Management Coordinator Brian Misner, who serves as Chair of the COG Emergency Managers Committee. “Preparedness starts at home, and the first step is to talk with your children about what they should do if an emergency happens when you’re not around.”

 

In addition, officials recommend building or updating an emergency supply kit with at least three days of supplies per person, making a plan for you and your family, and staying informed by signing up for local emergency alerts. Ask your children to help when gathering supplies for your kit, and teach them the importance of saving for an emergency by helping them create their own emergency fund in case a favorite toy or game needs to be repaired or replaced.

 

Information on making emergency plans and kits are widely available on local government websites as well as FEMA’s ready.gov/make-a-plan site. Links to emergency alerts are also available on local government websites and the regional Capitalert site.  

 

Area governments continue to work year-round to prepare for all types of natural or man-made disasters and emergencies from major snowstorms to public health emergencies. During this summer’s historic flash floods across the region, officials also helped spread the important message “Turn Around, Don't Drown!” reminding residents what to do if they encounter water covering a roadway.