HANSCOM AIR FORCE BASE, Mass. – Emergency management personnel here invite the community to observe National Preparedness Month throughout September. The theme for this year is “Disasters Don’t Wait. Make Your Plan Today.”
The 66th Civil Engineering Division Emergency Management office will send out resources via designated unit EM representatives to keep employees and mission partners prepared and informed before a disaster strikes.
“Whether the disaster is natural or manmade, everyone should prepare for the potential risk to themselves, their loved ones and communities,” said Daniel Jackson, Hanscom Emergency Management program specialist.
According to the Hanscom National Preparedness Month Plan of Action, there are four important areas to focus on before a disaster strikes: develop a plan, build a kit, prepare for disasters and teach youth about preparedness.
In addition to a family plan, emergency management officials suggest personnel familiarize themselves with workplace, school, daycare provider or apartment building plans, if possible.
“Planning is the key to success during disasters. Make sure you are ready,” said David Bilodeau, installation emergency manager.
The Air Force “Be Ready” program’s main focus is to ensure all Airmen and their families are educated and prepared when disasters strike. The emergency management team here recommends the Hanscom community be familiar with the program, which includes helpful tips on how to create an emergency supply kit and develop an emergency family plan, as well as information on how to become a partner of preparedness in the community.
“COVID-19 has again thrust the importance of emergency preparedness into the spotlight,” said Jackson. “History has shown that disasters continually have devastating impacts not only locally, but on a national and global scale.”
To learn more about National Preparedness Month, download the Air Force “Be Ready” mobile app or visit https://www.beready.af.mil or https://www.ready.gov/september.
To contact the Hanscom AFB Emergency Management office, email daniel.jackson.27@us.af.mil.