Emergency Preparedness Month

by Nancy Hightower - September 8, 2021

September is Emergency Preparedness Month. No one likes to think about tragedy and disaster striking, but it’s a real possibility that is out of our control. The only thing we can do is be prepared to the best of our capabilities.

Preparedness can save money, lives, and a lot of grief!

How do I create a safety plan?

It’s smart to plan for emergencies. Start by considering what types of disasters could affect your area. Consider the kinds of severe weather that may impact your region.

In Arkansas, we tend to see severe weather damage such as heavy rains, flooding, tornadoes, and other severe storms. Also consider types of disaster that can hit anyone, such as house fires. Create a list of possible catastrophes and make a safety plan for each. For instance, a safety plan for a fire will be different than a safety plan for a tornado.

Make sure everyone in your family knows all safety plans.

Include details such as where to go and what to do during an emergency. Consider who will help smaller children, what will happen with companion animals and livestock, and where will everyone meet in the event of an emergency. Make sure everyone knows any important address and phone numbers in case they get separated from the family.

Learn more about residential fire safety and safety plans here.

What supplies will I need?

Keep a first aid kit, survival kit, and evacuation kit in an easy location where they will be untouched but easy to grab at in a moment’s notice. You can purchase these kits in stores or online. You can also put kits together yourself based on the specific needs of your family.

Common items are medicines, bandages, antibiotic ointment, alcohol wipes, gauze, flashlights, solar flares, multi-tools and pocketknives, thermal blanket, hand-crank radio, batteries, whistle, matches and candles, personal sanitation supplies, and a foldable shelter.

Other things to include might be baby formula and diapers, wipes, medications, pet food and supplies, important documents, contact cards, and cash or checks, depending on your personal circumstances.

Anything else?

From food and water to finances and document recovery, Extension offers informational resources on emergency preparedness here.