Agencies partner to promote National Preparedness Month in Nevada through September

CARSON CITY — The Nevada Department of Public Safety’s Division of Emergency Management, Nevada National Guard and Division of Public and Behavioral Health are partnering to participate in National Preparedness Month to encourage the public to plan for emergencies. Each week an agency will be promoting a variety of awareness and preparedness tips to help keep Nevadans safe. This year’s theme is “Disasters Don’t Wait. Make Your Plan Today.”

State agencies are urging Nevadans to prepare for an emergency that would require self-reliance for seven days without utilities and electricity, access to grocery stores, local services, household medical needs, food and water supplies and possibly without response from first responders. This year we are working together to create a “culture of preparedness,” which requires families, friends, and communities to get ready for disasters and emergencies before they strike.

“National Preparedness Month is a critical reminder that disasters can strike in an instant, with little or no warning. It is essential for Nevadans to always be prepared,” said Emergency Management Chief Justin Luna. “DEM in partnership with local state and federal agencies, prepare for emergencies such as natural disasters, pandemics, active shooters, mass casualties and chemical threats throughout the year by conducting training, exercises and educational programs. These training exercises are critical in ensuring that the state can effectively and efficiently respond to any crisis. It is vital the public plays a role as well by planning ahead for their households.”

Dr. Ihsan Azzam, Nevada’s Chief Medical Officer, agrees. “Disasters can happen anywhere, at any time. Disaster preparations don’t have to be time consuming or expensive but thinking ahead can save lives. A plan that provides for your family’s health care needs in an emergency can make all the difference,” he said. “National Preparedness Month in Nevada highlights the importance of developing a strategy that will keep your family and community safe and healthy when faced with a major disaster. I encourage all Nevadans to stay vigilant on preparing ahead and creating a plan.” For additional information on health preparedness tips, please visit DPBH Are You Prepared here.

September was designated as National Preparedness Month in 2004 in honor of the September 11th attacks. As we observe the 19th anniversary of that tragedy, let's take a few moments with our families to prepare for an emergency. During times of disasters and incidents the Nevada National Guard has and always will be a valuable source that the Governor can use to support the communities of the great state of Nevada.

“Disaster can strike at a moment’s notice, and no one is exempt from the damage that a disaster brings, which is why it is so critical that our guardsmen across the state are prepared in the event of an emergency,” said Nevada National Guard Major General Ondra Berry. “Emergency preparedness is everyone’s responsibility. When guardsmen and their families are prepared they will be ready to support the state and their neighbors when an emergency strikes, which saves time, property and most importantly lives. The strength of our guardsmen comes from the strength of their families. During National Preparedness Month, we ask you to take four action steps – create an emergency supply kit, develop a family communications plan, stay informed and get involved - so you and your loved ones can react quickly when a disaster occurs.”

National Preparedness Month is recognized each September to promote family and community disaster planning now and throughout the year. As our nation continues to respond to COVID-19, there is no better time to be involved.

The 2020 NPM theme is: "Disasters Don’t Wait. Make Your Plan Today."

Week 1 September 1-5: Make A Plan

Talk to your friends and family about how you will communicate before, during, and after a disaster. Make sure to update your plan based on the Centers for Disease Control recommendations due to the coronavirus.

Week 2 September 6-12: Build A Kit

Gather supplies that will last for several days after a disaster for everyone living in your home. Don’t forget to consider the unique needs each person or pet may have in case you have to evacuate quickly. Update your kits and supplies based on recommendations by the Centers for Disease Control.

Week 3 September 13-19: Prepare for Disasters

Limit the impacts that disasters have on you and your family. Know the risk of disasters in your area and check your insurance coverage. Learn how to make your home stronger in the face of storms and other common hazards and act fast if you receive a local warning or alert.

Week 4 September 20-26: Teach Youth About Preparedness

Talk to your kids about preparing for emergencies and what to do in case you are separated. Reassure them by providing information about how they can get involved.

Visit Plan Ahead Nevada for additional information on National Preparedness Month and how to prepare.