September: National Preparedness Month Published Sept. 19, 2013 Courtesy of 19th Civil Engineer Squadron Emergency Management LITTLE ROCK AIR FORCE BASE, Ark. -- September 2013 marks the tenth annual National Preparedness Month, sponsored by the Federal Emergency Management Agency in the US Department of Homeland Security. Our goal is to educate the public about how to prepare for emergencies, including natural disasters, mass casualties, biological and chemical threats, radiation emergencies and terrorist attacks. Having an Emergency Kit is essential in preparing for a disaster. If disaster strikes our community, you might not have access to food, water, or electricity for some time. By taking time now to prepare emergency water supplies, food supplies and a disaster supplies kit, you can provide for your entire family. Make plans with your family and friends in case you're not together during an emergency. Discuss how you'll contact each other, where you'll meet, and what you'll do in different situations. Being prepared also means staying informed. Check all types of media - web sites, newspapers, radio, TV, mobile and land phones - for global, national and local information. For instant up to date information on the go, there are two mobile apps available for download: The AF "Be Ready" app is free and gives detailed information covering threats such as floods, tornadoes, thunderstorms and lightning. It provides emergency numbers, relevant websites, customizable family evacuation plans and emergency supply checklist. This app is available for download now on Android's Play Store or Apple's App Store. The 'Red Cross Tornado App' is also free and gives step-by-step instructions on preparing your family for a tornado. The app features an audible siren that automatically goes off even when the app is closed when NOAA issues a tornado warning, notification when a warning expires and how to make an emergency plan. This app is available for download now on Android's Play Store or Apple's App Store. The following websites can assist you with building an Emergency Kit, making a family emergency plan and even talking to your children about disasters: FEMA http://community.fema.gov/connect.ti/readynpm/grouphome Center for Disease Control & Prevention http://www.cdc.gov/features/beready/ Be Ready http://www.ready.gov/ Further information or questions can be direct to Emergency Management at 987-2829.