BOSTON – In an effort to raise awareness about the importance of emergency preparedness, Senator Michael O. Moore (D-Millbury) is reminding local residents that September is National Preparedness Month. The annual designation promotes the importance of taking steps to prepare and plan for potential emergency situations.
“Disasters don’t plan ahead, but you can,” said Senator Moore. “Taking a moment to make an emergency plan can make all the difference if a disaster were to strike. The recent devastation caused by Hurricane Florence, and the gas explosions in the Lawrence area, are reminders of the importance of preparing for disasters.”
Taking the time to learn lifesaving skills such as CPR and first aid are simple steps that anyone can take to prepare. During the planning process, it is also important to consider the unique preparedness needs of children, pets, seniors and people with access and functional needs.
Earlier this month, Governor Baker also proclaimed September to be Emergency Preparedness Month in Massachusetts to highlight the importance of emergency preparedness and to encourage planning for disasters and other types of emergencies.
The Massachusetts Emergency Management Agency (MEMA) has developed a free application for smartphones known as ‘Massachusetts Alerts,’ which keeps residents informed of emergencies in their area through public safety notifications. The application is available for free on both iPhone and Android devices through the App Store and Android Market.
During September, MEMA will also share emergency preparedness tips on Twitter and Facebook, and partner with other agencies to feature signage along highways. To learn more, please click below to visit the MEMA website which features resources to help prepare for emergencies.