Are you prepared for a community disaster? A 2018 nationwide poll revealed that 41% of Americans say they are not ready.
During National Preparedness Month, and throughout the year, Douglas County wants to be sure you have the tools you need to help you become prepared.
The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) annual disaster readiness campaign, promotes family and community disaster planning and awareness now and throughout the year. This year they remind us to, “Prepare to Protect. Preparing for disasters is protecting everyone you love.”
Douglas County and our neighboring communities are regularly affected by events such as severe winter weather, wildfires and floods. A few simple steps and shared responsibility for readiness can make a big difference as the winter weather and fall wildfire seasons approach.
“National Preparedness Month is a great time to make sure you and your family are prepared should a disaster strike close to home,” said Tim Johnson, Director, Douglas County Office of Emergency Management.
It is important to have a plan and an emergency kit, taking the following steps can create a more orderly and rapid response during a disaster:
- Take personal responsibility for being aware of local weather conditions.
- Sign up for CodeREDand receive local, public safety alerts via telephone, text message, and email directly from Douglas County. Consider signing up for additional notification means to further maximize your safety.
- Develop an emergency communication planfor you and your family.
- Build a kit. Being prepared means having your own food, waterand other needed supplies to last for several days.
- Download the County’s Disaster Preparedness Guidefor more helpful tips to prepare you and your family — including your pets and livestock.
- Watch the archive of a recent Live Town Hall “Wildfire Happens. Are you Ready?”
Learn more at ready.gov about how you can “Prepare to Protect.”