The time to prepare for the next natural or man-made disaster is now.
National Preparedness Month is an annual nationwide campaign that encourages Americans, including the young, old, people with disabilities and others with access and functional needs, to plan ahead because a disaster can strike at any time without warning.
Spearheaded by the Federal Emergency Management Agency, states participate and tailor preparedness messaging to the disastrous challenges distinctive to their region.
In California, the range of disasters can include a mixed bag of events that vary from natural happenings such as earthquakes, tsunamis, wildfires, mudslides, tornadoes and floods to acts of domestic terrorism.
Be Prepared California is a website sponsored by the California Department of Public Health. This site includes information on how Californians can protect themselves, their family and community by preparing in advance for when – not if – the next emergency will occur. Some suggestions are listed below:
- Develop a Disaster Plan
- Prepare an Emergency Supply Kit
- Talk to Children About Crisis Events
- Disaster Planning Tips for Pet/Livestock Owners
- For Parents with Infants
This year’s theme “Don’t Wait, Communicate. MakeYour Emergency Plan Today” was carried over from 2015, since it was so successful and clearly communicated the 
primary goal of encouraging citizens to prepare in advance for the inevitable.
Initially launched in 2004 as an effort by the federal government to increase the country’s preparedness capabilities, National Preparedness Month has grown into a pivotal reminder to mobilize Californians and all Americans to become proactive and prepare now and throughout the year, for the types of emergencies that could affect us where we live, work and visit.
For more preparedness information resources, please visit http://www.caloes.ca.gov/.
