“Disasters Don’t Plan Ahead. You Can.”

If we have learned anything in the past few weeks, it is that fire, floods, and hurricanes are devastating. We should all take action to prepare. We are all able to help first responders in our community by training how to respond during an emergency and what to do when disaster strikes — where we live, work, and visit. The goal of National Preparedness Month is to increase the overall number of individuals, families, and communities that engage in preparedness actions at home, work, business, school, and our Church community. More information can be found at the Ready.gov site.

For years, the IOCC (International Orthodox Christian Charities) has recommended that all of us make a plan, and more, in anticipation of unexpected disasters, and to this end they have published an Emergency Preparedness Kit flyer, and an Emergency Supply List (both of which you can download below). The important steps you must remember are;

• Get an emergency supply kit.
• Make a family emergency plan.
• Be informed about the risks in your area.
• Work with your neighbor and know who might need just a little extra help.

It’s important to explain to your children that families can prepare for emergencies before they take place and that they can help, too. By doing so, you can alleviate anxiety if an emergency does occur and help to nurture a more prepared society for generations to come.

Visit Ready.gov to get a kit, make a plan, and stay informed.

Visit ready.gov/kids today and help your kids get ready.

Here are both of the downloadable publications from the IOCC. Click on the image to download each in PDF format.