September
has been proclaimed
Preparedness Month by Governor Daniels. In order to keep you, your family, and
loved ones safe, the Indiana
Department of Homeland Security has activities to promote and support
emergency preparedness. More than 3000 public and private organizations at
national, regional, and local levels support emergency preparedness efforts.
Indiana residents are encouraged to participate. You can join emergency
preparedness efforts by doing four things:
Get a kit: Would you and your family survive after a
major disaster without access to transportation or major utilities? What
will you eat or drink? Do you have enough medicine, baby formula, and
other items to last three days or more?
Make a plan: Do you and your family members all know
now to escape if your home catches fire, or where to go if a tornado threatens
your area? How will you communicate and where will your family reunite if
you’re separated during an emergency? What you will do if your child’s
school or daycare facility closes? If you evacuate during a flash flood or
other disaster, do you know the best routes?
Be Informed: Is your home or office located in a
flood plain or are you downstream from a major dam? Will you know if a
severe thunderstorm is headed your way in the middle of the night?
Get Involved: Once you and your family are prepared
for emergency situations, go out and teach someone about preparedness. Schools
and businesses should include emergency plans into employee handbooks and
standard curriculums. The Indiana Department of Homeland Security’s website has
resources and plans for various groups, such as children, senior citizens/elderly, people with disabilities and functional
needs, pets.
The Indiana Department of Homeland Security has a Get Prepared page that
provides various plans for dangers Hoosier families face. Remember to
make a plan and make sure your family, friends, and neighbors have one as well!