National Preparedness Month

September is National Preparedness Month and the Austin/Travis County Health & Human Services Department encourages everyone to take action to prepare themselves and their families for emergencies.

Hurricane Gustav reminds us that emergencies, whether natural or man-made, can change our lives in an instant. And every year, hundreds of emergency situations wreak havoc on families and entire communities across the nation. Additionally, we must contend with the possibility of a pandemic flu as well as the threat of terrorist attacks. 

These are all reminders of how important it is for all of us to prepare for emergencies before they strike, to effectively respond to them and minimize their impact in our lives. While there is no way to predict what will happen, there are simple things everyone can do to prepare themselves and their loved ones to be ready to respond quickly in emergencies.

Take time now to assemble or update an emergency supply kit, family emergency plans and emergency contact information. A good first step is to have photocopies of identification, credit cards, prescriptions and important documents, as well as cash, in a sealed waterproof container such as a freezer bag, easy to grab on a moment’s notice.

Emergency supply kits should include basic supplies for your family for at least three days. It should include non-perishable food and one gallon per person per day of water, a battery operated radio and flashlight with extra batteries, and a first aid kit. Also consider your family’s unique needs and include prescription and non-prescription medications and supplies for children and pets. You may want a kit for home as well as a portable kit to carry with you if you need to evacuate.

Your family should also plan in advance what you will do in an emergency to take care of yourself and your loved ones. If you are not together, plan a place you can meet and how you will get in touch with each other, such as with an out-of-town contact. Learn about emergency plans at your workplace and children’s daycare or schools.

For more information, or to access free preparedness materials, visit www.ready.gov.
For more information on pandemic flu visit www.cityofaustin.org/pandemicflu. For presentations to community groups, call 972-7111 or email pandemicflu@ci.austin.tx.us.