National Preparedness Month: Be Ready

DAVIS-MONTHAN AIR FORCE BASE, Ariz. -- How would you react in an emergency situation?

If you don't already have a plan, there will be plenty of resources available during National Preparedness Month.

NPM, which is sponsored by the Federal Emergency Management Agency within the U.S. Department of Homeland Security, is held annually the month of September.

It promotes emergency preparedness across the country and encourages Americans to take steps to prepare for emergencies in their homes, business, schools and communities.

One goal of Homeland Security is to educate the public about how to prepare for emergencies, including natural disasters, mass casualties, biological and chemical threats, radiation emergencies, and terrorist attacks.

"It is everyone's responsibility to prepare for and plan for an emergency," said Tech. Sgt. Crystal Fabian, 355th Civil Engineering Squadron NCO in charge of readiness and emergency management. While Readiness and Emergency Management can give individuals a sense of how and what to plan for, it is up to the person to take that information to plan and prepare accordingly for any hazards that may occur. "

Some of the emergencies D-M prepares for are hazardous materials incidents, aircraft mishaps, monsoons and flash floods. Also, as a military installation, the base populace should be prepared for an active shooter scenario, or any terrorist related incidents.

"The advantage of planning before an emergency occurs results in being prepared and quicker response and recovery time from an emergency," Fabian said. "Remember: being proactive rather than reactive is best."

Knowing what to expect and how to prepare makes any crisis more manageable.

Even President Barack Obama understands the importance of being prepared as he stated in his proclamation on emergency preparedness, Sept. 1.

"Emergencies -- from hurricanes and wildfires to cyber and terrorist attacks -- can strike anywhere at any time," he said. "Americans should be familiar with local threats and hazards and take steps to reduce their devastating impacts. Families should assemble a disaster supplies kit well in advance and have a plan to reconnect after a tragedy. To make sure you are ready in the event of a crisis and to learn more about the types of disasters common in your area, visit www.Ready.gov or www.Listo.gov."

Visit www.Ready.gov/Arizona for helpful tips to be safe and prepared in this area. For more information about readiness, calls D-M's Emergency Management Flight at 228-4212, or go to www.BeReady.af.mil.