emergency communications
It’s September again, and this is the month when we reflect on the lessons learned during the September 11th terrorist attacks and we remember those who lost their lives on that terrible day, both the civilians and the first responders.
September is also National Preparedness Month, and therefore fitting that we take a look at the question, “is your family ready?” We’ve discussed disasters, we’ve asked if you are ready, and we mentioned that your family had to be provided for before you deploy to an emergency. So, in line with FEMA’s publicity push for the month, we will look at getting your family prepared for disaster. Unfortunately, this is more a question of when disaster will strike, rather than if it will. We live just on the edge of having everything we take for granted wiped out in the terrifying aspects of a natural or man-made disaster. Your ability to survive, let alone be comfortable, will depend on how well you and your family have planned for the inevitable. When a disaster strikes your community, the first responders and the relief organizations are not going to get to you immediately. It could be days before the emergency operations and disaster teams can get to you. The ability of your family to survive may solely depend on the planning and preparation you do now. Whether the disaster affects just your family or the whole community, a good plan will help mitigate the personal impact.
The Family Disaster Plan
First, be aware of and discuss with your family what kinds of natural or manmade disasters you can expect. Across the U.S., you can
