September is Emergency Preparedness Month

The Union County Board of County Commissioners reminds residents that September is Emergency Preparedness Month. Emergencies can happen at any time and often without warning, making preparation essential.

Residents are encouraged to take several steps this month to improve their preparedness. These steps include creating or updating a family emergency plan, building an emergency supply kit, reviewing important contact information, and ensuring knowledge of how to receive local emergency alerts.

According to the announcement, preparedness today can make a major difference when an emergency happens.

Residents can learn more about emergency preparedness and available resources through ReadyNJ and the New Jersey Office of Emergency Management. Additional information is available at ready.gov.

Union County Life covers emergency preparedness and public safety information for all Union County municipalities. Find more Union County news on Union County Life.

Photo Credit: New Providence, New Jersey

FAQ

Q: What is Emergency Preparedness Month?
A: It is a national awareness campaign held in September that encourages residents to prepare for emergencies that can happen at any time without warning.

Q: Why is emergency preparedness important?
A: Emergencies can happen at any time and often without warning. Preparedness today can make a major difference when an emergency happens.

Q: What should I do to prepare?
A: The Union County Board of County Commissioners recommends creating or updating a family emergency plan, building an emergency supply kit, reviewing important contact information, and ensuring knowledge of how to receive local emergency alerts.

Q: What should a family emergency plan include?
A: A family emergency plan should identify meeting places, communication contacts, and procedures for different types of emergencies. Details are available through ReadyNJ.

Q: What should I include in an emergency supply kit?
A: Emergency supply kits should include water, food, first aid supplies, medications, important documents, and other essential items. Detailed guidance is available at ready.gov.

Q: What contact information should I review?
A: Review important phone numbers for family members, emergency services, your workplace, schools, healthcare providers, and utility companies.

Q: How do I receive local emergency alerts?
A: Contact your municipal government or local emergency management office to learn about alert systems in your area. Many municipalities use Nixle, CodeRED, or other notification systems.

Q: Where can I learn more about emergency preparedness?
A: Visit ReadyNJ, the New Jersey Office of Emergency Management website, or ready.gov for comprehensive information and resources.

Q: Does this apply to all Union County residents?
A: Yes. This announcement applies to all residents across all 21 Union County municipalities.

Q: Who should prepare?
A: All residents, families, and households should develop emergency preparedness plans. Special consideration should be given to individuals with disabilities, medical conditions, or dependent family members.