September is National Preparedness Month

Published 8:00 am Saturday, September 3, 2016

The winds and rain that swept through the central Georgia region Thursday and Friday may not have packed as much of a punch as predicted, but the recent weather events should serve as a reminder to us all.

September is National Preparedness Month, but according to a recent statewide survey, just a quarter of Georgians say they are prepared for a natural disaster.

Only a little more than half of Georgians say they keep an emergency kit with essentials in their home, while only 39 percent have arranged a meeting place or reconnection plan with their families, according to the Georgia Emergency Management and Homeland Security Agency’s (GEMHSA) survey.

Taking these steps as part of personal planning and preparation can be tremendously helpful should a natural disaster or large-scale emergency strike.

Local and area alert systems provide up-to-date information on impending storms and emergencies right to our cellphones and emails. So, too, can stocking up on essential household supplies, becoming knowledgeable of first aid and even going over emergency procedures with family can help prepare for the unexpected.

None of us can predict if, or when, any of these measures will be utilized. We all certainly hope they never have to be – but planning ahead can help save time and even save lives.

For tips on how to get prepared visit www.ready.ga.gov.