Resolve to Be Ready in 2006
Release Date: January 3, 2006
Release Number: 1605-150
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MONTGOMERY, Ala. -- As Alabama residents make their New Year resolutions for 2006, the Alabama Emergency Management Agency (AEMA) and the U.S. Department of Homeland Security’s Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) urge residents to add disaster preparedness to the list.
With such devastating disasters occurring in the past year, some may feel preparing for a flood, earthquake, tornado or hurricane is beyond their abilities, yet there are some things that all residents can do to be ready
in 2006.
“Everyone can do something to be prepared for disasters. First, it’s necessary to have a plan. It is important that every household and business have emergency supplies that meet their needs,” said Michael Bolch, Federal Coordinating Officer. “Whether you are in your car, at home, or at your place of business, being ready is always a good idea.”
A disaster preparedness kit should include:
- First aid kit (including prescription medicines)
- Food and water for up to 72 hours
- Extra clothing and blankets
- Flashlights and extra batteries
The following supplies are recommended:
- NOAA Weather Radio and extra batteries
- Whistle to signal for help
- A camp stove with extra fuel
- Foldable ladders for second-story escape in a fire
- Photocopies of credit and identification cards
Keep emergency supplies in your car. This kit should contain food, water, first aid supplies, flares, jumper cables and seasonal supplies. If you have pets, have a kit that includes food, water, leashes, dishes and
carrying case or crate.
Be ready in advance in 2006 by:
- Taking a CPR certification class.
- Buying a National Flood Insurance Policy.
- Knowing how to use a fire extinguisher.
- Getting your family involved in disaster planning.
- Conducting routine family disaster readiness drills.
“To be prepared for a disaster is a resolution all Alabamians should consider making as 2006 begins,” said Bruce Baughman, State Coordinating Officer. For more information about how to be ready in 2006, call 800-BE-READY, or visit www.ready.gov
FEMA manages federal response and recovery efforts following any national incident. FEMA also initiates mitigation activities, works with state and local emergency managers, and manages the National Flood Insurance Program. FEMA became part of the U.S. Department of Homeland Security on March 1, 2003.
Last Modified: Tuesday, 03-Jan-2006 14:23:01