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National Preparedness Month: Stay in The Know!

 

It’s September, which means it’s National Preparedness Month! With this month becoming more popular it’s important everyone knows the meaning behind it. Preparation is key for any major disaster. Make sure you stay current on preparedness trends. Don’t be caught off guard and make sure your home is secure!

What is National Preparedness Month

National Preparedness Month was started by the U.S. government to help families & organizations across the country during natural disasters. Some of the key focuses of this organization include prevention, protection, response, and recovery during these times of crisis.

Dating back to 2001 the government has urged citizens to make survival plans in preparation of national disasters. The month of September was decided on after many Americans went through the horrors of September 11, 2001. With the month also falling within Hurricane season, it made more sense to hold National Preparedness Month in September.

Preparing for a Natural Disaster

Being prepared sounds like common sense. However, it was noted in a previous survey that less than 50% of the population have an emergency plan in place. Families should be aware of the situational emergencies that could take place around their residence. Do you live in Hurricane, Tornado, Earthquake, or Fire risk zones? Each disaster is different and should be prepared for differently.

However, one thing that’s needed for all of the above situations is an emergency supply kit. Having one of these kits at your disposal could be the difference between life and death during an emergency. They’re very cost affordable and should be stored in every household & vehicle.

What Should Be in Your Emergency Supply Kit

One of the biggest things that National Preparedness Month stresses is having an Emergency Supply Kit. If you’d like to go the route of making your own, it needs to be done correctly. Making sure you have the RIGHT items can make all the difference. Below are some items that should be included in your kit:

  • Water – 1 gallon of water, per individual, per day for a minimum of 3-days
  • Food – minimum 3-day supply of non-perishable food, per person
  • Flashlight
  • Radio- stay current on your situation
  • Extra batteries
  • Towelettes / Hand Sanitizer
  • Manual Can Opener- for food
  • Local map(s)
  • First aid kit
  • Whistle- to signal for help
  • Cell phone with chargers and a backup battery
  • Prescription Medications
  • Pain relievers, anti-diarrhea medication, antacids or laxatives
  • Infant formula, bottles, diapers, wipes, diaper rash cream
  • Pet food and extra water for your pet
  • Cash or traveler’s checks
  • Personal hygiene items
  • Sleeping bag or warm blanket for each person
  • Matches in a waterproof container
  • Chlorine bleach and medicine dropper to disinfect water

Home Security During A Natural Disaster

Many disasters can leave you and your loved ones displaced from your home. Unfortunately, this is a prime time for people to burglarize homes. Making sure your home is protected by a home security system is the number one way to keep your belongings safe when you’re gone! These systems come with wireless/back up battery technology. Meaning that even if your power goes out from a natural disaster…your home is still protected!

UtilityHound is one of the largest nationwide providers of home security systems. Offering multiple providers and plans depending upon your home’s needs. Interested in protecting your family and possessions? Speak with a UtilityHound representative today 888.959.0116 or visit their page at www.utilityhound.com.

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National Preparedness Month also advocates in addition to a security system. If you’re forced to leave your house, make sure:

  • All doors and windows are locked
  • Hidden Keys are removed
  • Valuables are taken with you or locked in a safe
  • Use timers and/or leave lights on in and outside of the house.