September is National Preparedness Month, the Spalding County Emergency Management Agency and the Georgia Emergency Management Agency/Homeland Security (GEMA/HS) Ready Georgia campaign are encouraging all Spalding County residents to get ready for emergencies. Statistics from the National Weather Service reveal that from 1995 to 2012, weather-related events have killed at least 188 people in Georgia and injured countless others. Although it’s difficult to predict the unexpected, by staying informed, making a plan and building a kit of supplies, you can ensure that you and your family are disaster ready.

Here are the Spalding County Emergency Management Agency’s top five tips to get ready during National Preparedness Month:

• Create an emergency communications plan. Your family may be separated during an emergency and phones may not be in service, so it’s vital that your family knows how to reconnect. The Ready Georgia website includes a tool to help you create a customized plan.
• Purchase a NOAA weather radio. A NOAA weather radio can be as much of a lifesaver as a smoke alarm, but up to 76 percent of Georgia households don’t have one. These radios can alert you to severe weather 24 hours a day, giving you time to take shelter and stay safe.
• Prepare a Ready kit. This kit should include enough supplies for you and your family to survive at least three days without any aid – the kit should contain non-perishable food, water, a first aid kit, a flashlight and extra batteries.
• Revisit your kit. Consider the unique needs of your family, such as pets, seniors or family members with special needs and make sure to include all items they may need. Since some conditions may require you and your family to evacuate, make a plan of where you will need to go and familiarize yourself with Georgia’s evacuation routes.
• Practice for an emergency. Once you have your kit and plan in place, practice to make sure your family is completely ready in the event of a disaster.

For more information, contact Spalding County EMA at (770)228-2129. You can also download Ready Georgia’s free mobile app.