April Is Disaster Preparedness Month
Release Date: April 1, 2002
Release Number: R10-02-36
Seattle, WA -- April is Disaster Preparedness Month. This year's theme in Washington State is all about energizing citizens, businesses and local governments to take an "all hazards approach" in preparing for -and mitigating the effects of- potential disasters. According to FEMA Regional Director John Pennington, it's a good time to take a break from our workaday routine to reevaluate our disaster preparedness plans and restock emergency kits.
"Calendar observances like Disaster Preparedness Month help us stop 'meaning to' do the right thing, and actually carve out the time to do it," said Pennington. "A current all-hazards disaster preparedness plan and emergency kit that allows for three days of reasonable self-sufficiency in terms of food, water and prescription medication is everyone's responsibility."
Washington Emergency Management Division (WEMD) Director Glen Woodbury, concurs. "With the Nisqually Earthquake anniversary a little over a month old, no one would argue that we still face a very real seismic threat. This month's events include a state-wide 'Drop, Cover and Hold' drill scheduled for April 18, 2002, between 9:45 and 10:00 a.m., " said Woodbury. "And many of the precautions that protect against the shock and disruptions caused by a major earthquake can mitigate the effects of major floods, fire, winter storms even terrorist strikes."
Washington Disaster Preparedness Month observances begin with a Disaster Preparedness Month proclamation by Governor Gary Locke advocating greater independence in the wake of major disasters. Campaign information packets including posters and resource materials will be mailed to state agencies, schools, hospitals, tribes and businesses throughout the state. For more information, call Barbara Everette Thurman, WEMD disaster campaign coordinator, (253) 512-7000.
Last Modified: Wednesday, 27-Aug-2003 16:48:37