Get ready Stearns County; it’s National Preparedness Month

Flooding, winter storms, power outages and tornadoes; these are just some of the disaster threats faced by Stearns County residents. Emergencies will happen, but taking action now can help minimize the impact they will have. Preparing ahead of time can help save lives, protect property and speed up the pace of recovery.
September is National Preparedness Month, an opportunity for everyone to think about their individual role as it relates to personal and family emergency preparedness. Taking a few simple steps helps to prepare for what potential disasters and emergencies can bring.
· Be informed. Know the hazards and risks in your area.
· Make a family emergency plan, so you know how you would communicate with and find your loved ones if a disaster hit.
· Put together a disaster supply kit – for home and car – that includes water, food and first-aid supplies to help you survive if you lose power or get stranded in your car. This is especially important for dealing with icy roads and snowstorms this winter.
· Get Involved. Are you prepared to help your neighbor? Find out how you can promote preparedness in your community.
Emergencies can be devastating for those unprepared. Take a few minutes to use some of the helpful tools on Stearns County’s web site at www.co.stearns.mn.us. Take a preparedness quiz, get help with your family emergency plan or learn how to prepare a basic disaster supply kit.
National Preparedness Month is sponsored by the U.S. Department of Homeland Security’s Ready America campaign.