National Preparedness Month

  • Published
  • By Airman 1st Class Harry Brexel
  • 19th Airlift Wing Public Affairs
LITTLE ROCK AIR FORCE BASE, Ark. --  Throughout the year, various national observances are recognized, and attention is focused on each of them in order to bring understanding, awareness or even celebration. The month of September, however, is exceptional because it highlights one of the major campaigns of the Department of Defense and offers advice that could potentially lead to life-saving results.

National Preparedness Month was first observed in 2004 and is sponsored by the Federal Emergency Management Agency within the Department of Homeland Security.

Each year during the month of September, prevention, protection, response, and recovery efforts are emphasized to prepare Americans for all types of hazards. Both natural disasters and terrorist attacks are taken into account during National Preparedness Month.

September was chosen as National Preparedness Month not long after the tragedies that occurred Sept. 11, 2001. These significant events highlighted the importance of being prepared for any type of disaster at any given time.

Disasters occur in all shapes and sizes throughout the world. The Natural State of Arkansas is no exception.

The amount of natural disasters that Arkansas can face can be overwhelming to many at first. According to a 2013 NBC news poll, Arkansas ranks number nine out of U.S. states with the most major natural disaster declarations.

With the threat of tornadoes, wildfires, floods, lightning, ice storms, extreme heat, earthquakes, snow and after-effects from coastal hurricanes, Arkansans must be prepared at all times.

Although the different elements present a variety of possible natural disasters, there are several things Airmen and their families can do to prevent tragedy.

Each potential disaster can require various essentials, but having a basic set of supplies is always crucial.

"Whether facing man-made or natural disasters, an emergency supply kit can save lives," said Senior Airman Justin Creel, a 19th Civil Engineer Squadron emergency management technician.

Some vital supplies include water, nonperishable foods, a can opener, first aid kit, personal sanitation supplies, flashlights, medication, a fire extinguisher, bleach (as a disinfectant), pet food, infant formula and diapers, important family documents, cash, matches in a waterproof container, and books or toys for children.

"The most important emergency preparedness tool may perhaps be a family emergency plan," said Creel.

While it's nearly impossible to predict natural disasters, simply having a family emergency plan can be a huge advantage when it comes to facing disasters and hazards.

Weather can be dangerous, but man-made incidents must also be considered in disaster preparedness. In particular, military installations must remain at a heightened awareness as potential threats may occur.

"Airmen and families should be aware of terrorism threat levels, lockdown terms and procedures," said Creel.

According to the Air Force Civil Engineer Center Emergency Management Division, having a plan can help people remain calm, and in turn helps emergency responders to quickly assess the situation and determine dangerous scenarios.

To learn more information about disasters, protection or response, contact the 19th CES emergency management flight at (501) 987-2908 or visit www.ready.gov/september.

For up-to-date, detailed information on a wide variety of potential local threats, download the "Be Ready" app. The Air Force "Be Ready" app is available for download now through your provider. For more information, visit www.BeReady.af.mil.