FORT WALTON BEACH, Florida — Okaloosa County Department of Public Safety and Florida Department of Health in Okaloosa County are observing September as National Preparedness Month.
The event serves as a reminder to residents of easy ways to keep their families prepared and safe during emergencies.
The departments hope to spread the word about the importance of emergency preparedness.
“Emergencies can happen at any time, so individuals and families should start planning and preparing now,” stated Alvin Henderson, Director of Public Safety for Okaloosa County. “Stay tuned in the following weeks for specific messages that will help prepare our communities for all types of emergencies.”
“Preparing and planning for all types of emergencies is important to make sure everyone remains safe and healthy,” stated Katie McDeavitt, Public Health Preparedness section chief for DOH-Okaloosa. “There are simple steps that your family can take to prepare, and this month will be an opportunity to highlight those steps.”
The overall theme of the month is "Don’t Wait, Communicate. Make Your Emergency Plan Today."
County topics on preparedness for each week of September are:
●Week 1—Family Emergency Communications Plan
●Week 2—Emergency Supply Kit and Pet Plan
●Week 3—Emergency Preparedness and Information Apps
●Week 4—Special Needs Shelter Registry
For details, visit www.co.okaloosa.fl.us or www.healthyokaloosa.com.
This article originally appeared on Crestview News Bulletin: Okaloosa officials observe National Preparedness Month