National Preparedness Month: Get tips, win prizes Sept. 15 at Exchange Published Sept. 12, 2023 By Brandon Ashcraft Office of Emergency Management, Wright-Patterson Air Force Base National Preparedness Month Graphic (photo used with permission from National Preparedness Month Graphics | Ready.gov ) Photo Details / Download Hi-Res WRIGHT-PATTERSON AIR FORCE BASE, Ohio – National Preparedness Month is observed each September to raise awareness about the importance of preparing for disasters and emergencies that could happen at any time. 2023’s theme is “Take Control in 1, 2, 3.” In support of National Preparedness Month, Wright-Patterson Air Force Base’s Office of Emergency Management will host an informational booth inside the Base Exchange on Sept. 15 from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. Stop by to meet the Emergency Management Flight and spin the wheel for free preparedness-related prizes to help get your emergency kit started. The campaign’s focus is on preparing older adults for disasters, specifically those from communities disproportionally impacted by all-hazard events, which continue to threaten the nation. Topics include planning ahead for susceptible disasters in your area, making a plan to assist those with disabilities, and getting benefits such as Social Security electronically – since a disaster can disrupt mail service for days or weeks. Since disasters can happen anywhere at any time, a good start for all families is to have a written plan in advance. Consider any special needs your family may have, determine how you’ll get in contact with one another or a meeting point in case of separation. Each family member should also learn evacuation routes, and make sure your kids know important phone numbers. In addition to having a plan, each family should assemble an emergency kit. It should have everything you’ll need to survive for several days and include necessities such as food, water and medical care items. Everyone is urged to consider the unique needs of your family. Include supplies that may be needed by pets, older adults and those with disabilities in the event of an emergency. At a minimum, the Federal Emergency Management Agency reminds everyone to include nonperishable food and water that can last several days, flashlights, radios, extra batteries and a first-aid kit. Keeping a NOAA Weather Radio, downloading the FEMA app and getting alerts from the National Weather Service are highly recommended as well. Many resources exist to assist with your family’s preparedness endeavors. The Air Force’s Be Ready webpage at www.BeReady.af.mil and FEMA’s www.Ready.gov will be helpful. For more information pertaining to older adults, go to www.ready.gov/older-adults. For more information, contact your unit emergency management representative or the WPAFB Office of Emergency Management at 937-257-3634.