National Preparedness Month

National Preparedness Month

A disaster can happen any time, any place. Being prepared ahead of time could save your property or your life. The City of Golden is not exempt from disasters. In fact, throughout the years, Golden has endured devastating floods, extreme weather conditions, pandemics, and property damaging wildfires. September is recognized as National Preparedness Month (NPM), sponsored by the Federal Emergency Management Agency, to educate the public on how to prepare for emergencies. The Golden Fire Department encourages everyone to prepare for disasters or emergencies in their homes, businesses, and communities. On behalf of the personnel and staff of the Golden Fire Department, Fire Chief Jerry Stricker reinforces the message of preparation, planning, awareness, and engagement as National Preparedness Month begins. Throughout September, GFD will post on our website and social media a different family activity to prepare for any type of disaster that may affect our community. You can also find detailed information about the preparedness activities at www.ready.gov.

For individuals in our community with disabilities, it is vital to plan for your regular needs and know what you would do if they became limited or unavailable. In addition to all of the tips in this article, plan for accessible transportation that may be needed for evacuation. Explain to the first responders your need for service animals, caregiver contact information, personal assistant, and your assistive technology devices and supplies. The Ready website has comprehensive information for individuals with disabilities and preparing for a disaster or emergency at www.ready.gov/disability.

PREPAREDNESS ACTIVITIES:

Week 1 September 1-4: Make A Plan with your friends and family on how to communicate before, during, and after a disaster. Be sure to establish a family meeting place that is familiar to everyone and easy to find.

Week 2 September 5-11: Build A Kit by collecting enough supplies for everyone living in your home to provide for your family, potentially a few days after the disaster. Don't forget to add prescription medications, pet food, and extra water for your pets. Add copies of all of the important documents that you may need on a flash drive and include that drive in your kit. Occasionally check your kits and update as needed or recommended.

Week 3 September 12-18: Prepare for Disasters by knowing the risks of disasters and hazards in your area. You can check your insurance for proper coverage. Know the types of storms or hazards that may affect your home and make additions or changes to make your home safer before receiving warnings or alerts.

Week 4 September 19-24: Teach Youth About Preparedness by talking to your children about preparing for emergencies and what to do in case you are separated. Reassure them by providing information about how they can get involved.

If you have any questions regarding emergency preparedness, feel free to reach out to the Golden Fire Department at 303-384-8094. Together, we will be more prepared to endure any type of disaster or emergency that may happen in and around the city of Golden. (Information from www.ready.gov)