September is National Preparedness Month which will provide an opportunity for an awareness campaign, a time to educate and raise awareness about emergency planning. Having witnessed multiple disasters up close this past year the message is not lost on us that planning before the event save lives, lower stress and aid in recovery.
National Preparedness Month is an annual campaign to encourage residents to take steps to prepare for emergencies in our homes, schools, organizations, businesses and neighborhoods. Activities which help us to be ready are participating in an emergency drill, making a plan, putting together a go-kit of supplies for your family, or taking the time to review how to respond to a natural disaster.
If you recall from last year’s stories there were many who were able to survive, assist neighbors and do good work. Through training and preparation a greater portion of the community will be better prepared and fit for survival. According to Springfield Health and Human Services Director, Helen Caulton-Harris, “last years’ disasters teach us that it is never too early to begin, continue and complete our emergency preparedness for personal and family survival.” NPM was originally created by the Federal Emergency Management Agency’s (FEMA) Ready Campaign in response to the tragic events of 9/11 in order to educate the public on how to prepare for emergencies. This year’s NPM campaign focuses on the theme: Pledge to Prepare. FEMA, SHHS and the Ready campaign urge neighborhoods in Springfield to take the pledge and be better prepared for disasters.
Emergency Preparedness is the responsibility of every citizen in Springfield, in other words, Rapid Emergency Action Depends on You (READY). It takes a team effort to ensure that we are ready for any disasters. Agencies and organizations working in partnership with the Springfield Department of Health and Human Services (SHHS) are the Western Region Homeland Security Advisory Council (WRHSAC). Pioneer Valley Planning Council, Hampden County Health Coalition, Faith Communities, Medical Reserve Corps, Boards of Health and Mayor Sarno.
Events in Springfield designed to provide information, education and outreach:
· September 6th at 10 a.m. – Proclamation and Banner hanging on the steps of City Hall with Mayor Sarno
· September 18th 11 a.m. “GET READY DAY” at Tower Square on Main Street – Food Court
· September 21st at 1:30 p.m. “LET’S MAKE A PLAN” training at 95 State Street, Suite #201
· September 24th at the BIG E – Better Living Center – Chiefs of Police Booth
· September 30th at 9 a.m. MassMutual Center Outreach during the Suicide Prevention Community Walk- “Out of the Darkness”
For more information visit the Western Mass Ready website at www.westernmassready.org, www.ready.gov. www.springfield-ma.gov/hhs/hhs-training.0.html and bafrederic@springfieldcityhall.com Please join us in becoming involved and engaged in emergency preparedness. “GET READY!”
