September is National Preparedness Month

Disasters can strike at any time, which is why Loudoun County encourages residents and businesses to observe National Preparedness Month in September by taking steps to prepare for all types of emergencies. This year's theme is "Start a Conversation, which promotes talking with family members and others about the steps necessary to prepare for disasters and emergencies.

"We want people to take action to prepare themselves and their families for the many types of hazards that could affect Loudoun County. Being prepared will help residents have peace of mind in the knowledge that they and their family members know what to do in case of a disaster," said Loudoun County Coordinator of Emergency Management Kevin Johnson.

Like many communities, Loudoun has the potential to experience many types of hazards, such as blizzards, flooding, high winds, power outages, tornadoes and even terrorist events. National Preparedness Month comes in the middle of hurricane season and is a reminder that even though Loudoun is inland, the county is vulnerable to the effects of hurricanes, which can produce extensive flooding hundreds of miles from the coast, such as was the case with Hurricane Debby.

There are many local, state, regional and national resources available to help individuals and families with the process of being prepared for emergencies, including loudoun.gov/ready, Ready.gov, ReadyNOVA and the Virginia Department of Emergency Management.

In addition to online resources, the Loudoun County Office of Emergency Management will have preparedness information available through displays at the county's community centers, senior centers, the Loudoun County Government Center and Loudoun County Public Library branches throughout September.

Emergency Preparedness: Step by Step

By taking a few simple steps, you can become better prepared to face a range of emergencies that could occur anytime and anywhere.

• Step 1: Make a Plan: Your family may not be together when disaster strikes, so it is important to plan ahead for how to get to a safe place, contact loved ones and reunite once the emergency is over. Online planning tools for families, businesses and places of worship can be found at ReadyNOVA.
• Step 2: Build a Kit. Being prepared means having your own food, water and other supplies to last for at least 72 hours. A disaster supplies kit is a collection of basic items your household may need in the event of an emergency, including items that can protect against COVID-19, including hand sanitizer, soap, disinfectant wipes and face coverings. If pets are part of your family, include items such as a selfie with your pet in case you get separated, medicine and grooming items as well as a collar and leash. Find out more at loudoun.gov/makeakit.
• Step 3: Be Informed: Know the types of hazards that may occur and how you will receive information before, during and after an emergency.
• Step 4: Get Involved: Volunteer with organizations that support disaster efforts in our community, such as the Loudoun Medical Reserve Corps or the Loudoun County Combined Fire and Rescue System. Loudoun Cares helps connect local organizations with volunteers. AmeriCorps is a federal agency for community service and volunteerism.

Throughout National Preparedness Month, follow Loudoun County Government on Facebook and X for tips on preparing for all types of hazards. For more information and resources for preparing for emergencies, visit loudoun.gov/ready.

# # #

Public link

Please use the above public link if you want to share this noodl on another website.