CHARLESTON, W.Va. –
September is National Preparedness Month. As readiness professionals, the West Virginia National Guard is always ready at a moment’s notice to assist our fellow West Virginians in their time of need during emergencies and disasters. During this time, not only must we be prepared to respond to our citizens, but we also need to be ready on a personal level.
Each year, millions of Americans are impacted by natural disasters or emergencies. Being ready for any type of event in our own personal life is critical in us being able to also fulfill our military mission.
This year, the theme for National Preparedness Month is, “Prepared, Not Scared.” Preparedness can take on many forms. From financial planning and insurance coverage, to speaking with your children about youth preparedness and family plans in the event of an emergency. These discussions and planning can be a positive, proactive tool in our toolkits for personal readiness.
If you or your family are looking for additional resources, the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) and our partner agency, the West Virginia Division of Homeland Security and Emergency Management (WVDHSEM), will highlight different aspects of preparedness through public outreach campaigns throughout the month of September. These are great resources for information on preparedness and how to get connected in your community and around the state.
During September, I urge every Soldier and Airman in the West Virginia National Guard to look at your own personal and family preparedness and to become proactive in being ready for emergencies and disasters. Let us set the example for our fellow West Virginians in being personally prepared. The more personally prepared we are as a state, the less loss of life, destruction of property, and negative impacts to our communities we will experience.
For more information on Preparedness Month, go to: www.ready.gov/september or follow the WVDHSEM Facebook page at: www.facebook.com/WVDHSEM/.