September is National Preparedness Month - Protect Your Legacy

​​All West Virginians encouraged to participate in National Preparedness Month this September

September is National Preparedness Month. It is Federal Emergency Management Agency's (FEMA) annual preparedness outreach event sponsored by their Ready Campaign. Governor Justice declared September as National Preparedness Month (NPM) in West Virginia to align with the FEMA's national campaign. See Governor Justice's NPM Proclamation ​

​This year's theme is: 

“A Lasting Legacy: The life you've built is worth protecting. Prepare for disasters to create a lasting legacy for you and your family."  Ready WV is committed to participating in NPM to increase awareness and preparedness in communities throughout West Virginia. This year, we ask individuals, families and households to take time to prepare yourself and your home with these following steps:

• Be Informed – Sign up to get local emergency alerts. Follow local and/or state emergency social media platforms. Get a weather radio.

• Make a Plan – Keep emergency contact list in your phone and written down. Discuss how you and your loved ones contact each other and where your designated meeting place will be.

• Build an Emergency Kit - Gather enough emergency supplies to last for several days after a disaster for everyone in your home. Don't forget to consider the unique needs each person or pet may have in case you have to evacuate quickly. See Emergency Kit Check List

• Check your Insurance Policies – what types of hazards and damage does it Cover.  Most homeowner's DO NOT cover for floods. Learn more about the National Flood Insurance Plan program. Or ask your private insurance about flood coverage.

• Safeguard Critical Documents and Valuables - think of critical information you might need for medical, financial, household, and pets.  

• Educate and involve youth in preparedness - Talk to your kids about how to prepare for emergencies and what to do in case you are separated. Reassure them by providing information about how they can get involved.

• ​Save for an Emergency -  Consider saving money in an emergency savings account that could be used in any crisis. Keep a small amount of cash at home in a safe place.

Preparedness is a shared responsibility that takes the whole community. Follow Ready WV on Facebook and Twitter as we provide preparedness information and tips throughout the year. Take time this September to prepare and protect your legacy!  

Take time this month to prepare and protect your family and home. 

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