National Preparedness Month

September is National Preparedness Month and in wake of all the natural disasters that have taken place in our country recently and in Mexico, no better time then now to have a month dedicated to informing those on being prepared.

We often think about the response, but like we saw with hurricane Harvey, once we got word of hurricane Irma, people from all around the southeast starting preparing for the insane weather and major damage that was ahead. Mike Erfert with YFD gives us some insight on what people should do first in regards to a disastrous situation and what they should always keep in mind.

“It should make people think about their own personal preparedness. What are they doing? Do they have a plan? If they had to leave in an emergency, do they have a 72 hour kit? Do they know what a 72 hour kit is? Something that would allow them to be out of their home in other circumstances for up to 72 hours, having the needed supplies that they might need,” said Erfert.

It’s also important to remember that places like Yuma county and the Imperial Valley aren’t immune to natural or man-made disasters. We have had massive hurricanes in the desert southwest, plus monsoon season isn’t officially over until the end of the month. For more information on National Preparedness Month and or classes YFD provides in case of emergencies, you can head to their website at www.yumaaz.gov/fire-department/