September is National Preparedness Month: 5 Easy Ways to Be Emergency-Ready
Although no one wants to imagine a disaster striking close to home, having a plan in place can offer real peace of mind. September is National Preparedness Month - a time to take small, proactive steps that can make a big impact when emergencies happen. Here are five essential ways to boost your emergency readiness:
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Build a Basic Emergency Kit
Include water, non-perishable food, flashlights, a USB power bank for charging devices, rechargeable or backup batteries if needed, first-aid supplies, essential documents, and masks and gloves for personal protection. For more serious emergencies, consider including advanced PPE like respiratory protection, depending on the risks in your area.
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Create a Family Communication Plan
If your family is separated during an emergency, how will you reconnect? Establish emergency contacts, choose a meeting spot, and make sure every household member knows the plan. Not sure where to start? Ready.gov offers a simple online tool that walks you through the process and generates a custom plan you can print and share.
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Sign Up for Alerts
Enroll in local emergency notification systems to receive real-time updates on threats or disasters in your area. Also, make sure Wireless Emergency Alerts (WEAs) are enabled on your smartphone to receive national alerts automatically, no app or sign-up required.
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Practice Your Plan
Run drills at home and work. Familiarity can save lives when seconds matter. Aim to practice at least once or twice a year to keep everyone confident and prepared.
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Stay Informed
Visit Ready.gov for expert guidance and stay connected with Avon Protection for the latest in protective gear. Preparedness starts with awareness - let’s all take steps to protect what matters most.