September is National Preparedness Month. It is also our annual Prepare Kansas online challenge. Prepare Kansas 2017 will provide tips on getting financially prepared ahead of disasters and emergencies. This year’s program will be conducted through the K-State Research and Extension Facebook page. No registration is required, so Kansans and anyone interested in planning ahead for emergencies can follow on Facebook and this blog at any time during September, pick up handy information and interact with K-State extension specialists and agents. Today’s post is written by Elizabeth Kiss, Family Resource Management Specialist.
Communication is key. This week’s challenge is to develop and practice a family communication plan.
Why is this important? When an emergency or disaster occurs, it is unlikely that everyone will be at home. It is important to have an emergency plan so that all family members know what to do and can check in with one another. The same goes for your workplace.
After you’ve developed a family communication plan, share the details with everyone who needs to know about it. Then, practice implementing it.
Not sure how to get started? It can be as easy as a conversation over dinner.
To start your emergency plan, FEMA and ready.gov recommend discussing these 4 questions with your family, friends, or household.
- How will I receive emergency alerts and warnings?
- What is my shelter plan?
- What is my evacuation route?
- What is my family/household communication plan?
Learn more at www.ready.gov/make-a-plan The Family Emergency Communication Guide will walk you through the steps. Use the Wallet Sized Emergency Communication Plan to record all of the important details.
Disasters don’t plan ahead. You can. Make an emergency plan today.
