BISMARCK, N.D. – Gov. Doug Burgum has proclaimed the month of September as Preparedness Month in North Dakota. Preparedness Month is an annual event held nationwide to raise awareness about the importance of preparing for disasters and emergencies. The 2023 theme for the campaign is “Preparing for Older Adults.”
According to Ready.gov, a national public service campaign for emergency preparedness, older adults can face greater risks when it comes to the multitude of extreme weather events and emergencies our communities face. This is especially true for those who live alone, are low-income, have a disability or live in rural areas.
“North Dakotans know extreme weather can occur during any season, whether it’s a tornado, flood, wildfire or blizzard. Being prepared is critical for limiting the impacts from disasters and emergencies,” said North Dakota Homeland Security Director Darin Hanson. “Anytime is a good time to prepare, but especially this month, we encourage everyone to develop an emergency plan with their neighbors, friends and families. Let’s also remember to look out for one another when these emergency events occur.”
Each week in September, preparedness posts on the NDResponse Facebook page will focus on different topics to help individuals, families and communities be ready in case of a disaster or emergency.
Week 1 Sept. 1-8: Make A Plan
Talk to your friends and family about how you will communicate before, during and after a disaster.
Week 2 Sept. 9-15: Build A Kit
Gather supplies that will last for several days after a disaster for everyone living in your home. Don’t forget to consider the unique needs each person or pet may have in case you have to evacuate quickly.
Week 3 Sept. 16-22: Low-Cost, No-Cost Preparedness
Limit the impacts that disasters have on you and your family. Know the risk of disasters in your area. Learn how to make your home stronger in the face of storms and other common hazards. Check your insurance coverage to make sure it is up to date.
Week 4 Sept. 23-30: Teach Youth About Preparedness
Talk to your kids about preparing for emergencies and what to do in case you are separated. Reassure them by providing information about how they can get involved.
For more information about National Preparedness Month, visit ready.gov/September and for information about pressing incidents impacting North Dakotans, visit ndresponse.gov.