(Washington, DC) – In recognition of National Preparedness Month, the Bowser Administration has officially declared September as “DC Preparedness Month.” The District of Columbia Homeland Security Emergency Management Agency (HSEMA) is urging Washingtonians to take proactive steps to ensure their safety and the safety of their communities in the face of potential emergencies.
Emergencies can strike unexpectedly, ranging from extreme weather conditions like heatwaves and storms to power outages. HSEMA Director Clint Osborn emphasized that preparedness doesn’t need to be complicated or costly. “Knowing the risks where you live, having a plan, keeping a few important supplies on hand, and knowing where to get trusted information can make a difference during an emergency,” he stated. Osborn also highlighted the importance of community connections, saying that when neighbors look out for one another, the entire District becomes more resilient.
Throughout the month, HSEMA will distribute practical preparedness information via the ReadyDC campaign and collaborate with various agencies and community partners to promote safety measures at home, work, and in neighborhoods across all quadrants of the city. Residents are encouraged to start with five essential actions: understanding local risks, creating an emergency plan, assembling necessary supplies, staying informed through AlertDC, and fostering community relationships.
Preparedness is a personalized journey, and not every household needs to accomplish everything at once. Throughout September, ReadyDC will provide resources on recognizing common hazards in the District, crafting emergency plans, and gradually building emergency supplies. Residents are encouraged to visit ready.dc.gov for more information and resources, and to sign up for AlertDC at alert.dc.gov to receive critical emergency alerts from District officials.
As the lead agency for the District’s emergency management efforts, HSEMA administers the ReadyDC campaign on behalf of Mayor Muriel Bowser, aiming to equip residents, businesses, and communities with the tools they need to prepare for emergencies effectively.
Read the original article at hsema