September Shines Spotlight on Preparedness

ZANESVILLE, OH – September is Ohio Preparedness Month, and it’s all about helping you and your family stay ready.

The Ohio Emergency Management Agency is leading the campaign with this year’s theme, Prepare Your Home for Disaster. Each week of the month has a different focus including identifying risks, planning ahead, mitigation, preparedness, and safety skills. With winter right around the corner, now is the perfect time to take small steps toward readiness.

“It’s a big thing that we stress all year. Whether it’s flooding, storms, or winter storms, be prepared and have a plan in place. Put an extra blanket in your car and stuff like that so if you get stranded you don’t freeze to death. We want you to be somewhat prepared and stay warm.” Muskingum County EMA Director, Jeff Jadwin said.

While September shines a spotlight on preparedness, officials stress it’s important to be ready every month of the year. Having a plan and supplies can help protect your family whenever the unexpected happens.

“We want people to be prepared for whatever the season. The state pushes September as Preparedness Month, but we want people to be prepared every day, every week, and every month of the year for anything that could come along. It used to be we only had tornados in the spring or summertime. Now, 20% of the tornados are hitting the country in the wintertime. That’s why we stress being prepared.” Jadwin said.

You can sign up for the EMA Reverse 911 Notification System app to receive alerts. To learn more about Ohio Preparedness Month and to find helpful tips, visit the Muskingum County EMA website.

Muskingum County Emergency Management Agency – Homeland Security