Charleston County News Release

MEDIA CONTACT

Name:   Jennie Davis, Charleston County Public Information Officer

Phone:  843.958.4012

Email:   jdavis@charlestoncounty.org

Release Number:  3048

Date:  September 4, 2009

September is National Preparedness Month: Are You Ready Lowcountry? 

Each September is declared National Preparedness Month to encourage Americans to take simple steps to prepare for all types of emergencies in their homes, businesses, communities and schools.

Charleston County Government's Emergency Management Department has joined the diverse group of national, state and local partners in highlighting the importance of emergency preparedness and promoting community involvement through a wide variety of events and activities.

Sponsored by the national Ready campaign and Citizen Corps, the goal of the month is to increase public awareness about the importance of preparing for emergencies of all kinds and to encourage individuals to take action.

September 2009 is the sixth annual National Preparedness Month. This year's focus will be on changing perceptions about emergency preparedness and helping Americans understand what it truly means to be Ready.

Ready Lowcountry was developed as a local National Preparedness Month Resource Center to provide tools, resources and education, which citizens can utilize to help prepare their homes, businesses and communities for all types of hazards. Everyone is encouraged to utilize these resources during National Preparedness Month and throughout the year to help keep the community prepared.

Being Ready for emergencies goes beyond fire alarms, smoke detectors and dead-bolt locks. Being Ready includes making an emergency kit, forming a plan, being informed, and getting involved in community efforts.

Emergency preparedness is everyone's responsibility; everyone should have a family emergency plan and be prepared to take care of themselves for at least the first 72 hours after a disaster.

Residents can visit www.ready.govto learn how to prepare their family, home and business for all types of emergencies including natural and man-made disasters. The Web site offers free downloadable resources, including family emergency plan templates and sample business continuity plans.