September is National Preparedness Month

September is National Preparedness Month, and it's a good time for Oregon Emergency Management to remind us all that we have a responsibility to protect ourselves, our families and our communities during emergencies.

Emergencies do happen, but taking action now can help minimize their effect on our lives.
This year, according to Rebecca Marquis, the acting director of the Ready Campaign, NPM is focusing on helping Americans understand what it means to be really "Ready."

Preparedness goes beyond fire alarms, smoke detectors, deadbolt locks, and extra food in the pantry.

Being "Ready" includes: getting an emergency supply kit (72-hour kit at least), making a family emergency plan, being informed about emergencies and their appropriate responses, and getting involved in community efforts such as Citizen Corps.

For information about NPM or for help getting your family, business or community prepared, call (800) BEREADY or go to http://www.ready.gov/, http://www.listo.gov/, or http://www.citizencorps.gov/, where you'll find free preparedness resources.

Emergencies can happen anytime to anyone. Are you really ready?