Unpredictable weather is a reality in our state. And although weather-related incidents are not the only things we need to be prepared for, they are certainly among the most common in Oklahoma. The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) has designated September as National Preparedness Month. And given the fact that Oklahoma ranks fourth among all fifty states when it comes to declared disasters, the importance of emergency preparedness cannot be overstated. Our families and small-business owners need a plan to make sure they are prepared in case disaster strikes.
DHS organizes National Preparedness Month each year and encourages state and local organizations to play a role in raising awareness in their communities. The main goal of the week is to encourage families and their children, as well as community business owners, to prepare for emergencies by having a preparedness kit, making a plan and staying informed about potential natural disasters and terrorist attacks. Those three steps are key to ensuring the safety and security of loved ones and valuable property.
Businesses, both big and small, need an emergency plan that's designed to save lives and protect what entrepreneurs across the state have worked so hard to build. DHS's "Ready Business" web site points to three steps to safeguarding your investment: plan to stay in business, talk to your people and protect your investment. First, business owners should plan in advance for any emergency and evaluate their current resources to make sure their employees are safe and their investment is secure. Getting buy-in from workers will help them carry out the plan's procedures should a disaster occur. Finally, companies should have insurance coverage and secure their physical assets and information technology systems. For more information about disaster preparedness for business owners, visit http://www.ready.gov/business.
Families and children should also take the steps to prepare for possible emergency situations. This can be done by putting together a basic supply kit, drafting a preparedness plan and staying informed of the changing threats. A basic emergency supply kit should include the necessary supplies to meet basic life needs such as hunger, thirst and warmth. A family's emergency plan should include designated meeting places and emergency contact lists. The final step, being informed, is a continual process that means staying on top of any changes that could affect the preparedness plan. Families and kids should check out the unique resources available at http://www.ready.gov.
Our nation's emergency workers and police and fire officials do a superb job of ensuring the safety and security of American citizens. But their job is made even easier by families and business owners who can and do execute well-thought-out preparedness plans. So take time this September to talk to your family or work with business partners to put a plan of action in place. After all, a 'failure to plan is a plan to fail.'
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