It really is that exciting! (For us over here at OES at least).
For you, all of the readers in the vast corners of the Internet, it is a chance to take steps to become more prepared to cope with, learn from, and grow stronger as a result of natural and manmade disasters.Here in Monterey County, we will be promoting our "In the KNOW, READY to GO" campaign, which has a few easy steps that you can do and help us contribute to building a strong community.
Check them out below:
In the KNOW:
- Visit the Monterey County Office of Emergency Services website (www.co.monterey.ca.us/oes) for information on hazards in Monterey County, tips on ways to get prepared, and links to additional resources.
- Subscribe (by email or RSS feed) to the “Latest News” section to stay in the loop about what’s going on in and around Monterey County, including emergency information.
- Like/Follow the Monterey County Office of Emergency Services Facebook and Twitter (@MontereyCoOES)
- Sign up your cell phone number at AlertMontereyCounty.org . Unlike the “Reverse-911” systems in the past, Alert Monterey County now allows you to register a cell phone number and receive emergency notifications via text, phone call, or email. You also have the ability to choose what types of messages that you will receive and where they are concerning (ie you work in Salinas but live in Monterey and want to know if something is happening in either city).
READY to GO:
- Have a plan. This includes how and where to evacuate and meet (if necessary) and how to communicate with each other. Think about things like pets and if children are at school or activities. Talk about it and make sure everyone understands it. Sample plans at Ready.gov
Don't forget to test it! As Dwight from The Office will tell you, "Experience is the best teacher..."
- Build a kit. What would you need if nothing was available? Store enough supplies for each person for at least 3 days. Don’t forget batteries, and for canned food, make sure you pack a can opener! Throw some games and books in there to help pass the time. Special treats also help calm everyone down, so a chocolate bar or hard candy is also a great idea. Keep it all together so that you can grab it quickly in case of evacuation and keep a smaller version in your car or at work as well so you are ready no matter where you are. Customize it to your specific needs. Some suggested items can also be found at Ready.gov
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| Not quite what we had in mind, but hey - ready for anything! |
Each week during National Preparedness month has a different theme, and we'll be posting about them here and on Twitter.
Tune in to the #NatlPrep hashtag to follow along this month, and jump in the conversation!
