Each year North Texas experiences hail, lightning, thunderstorms, ice storms, tornadoes, flooding, fires, and power outages.  And, like most other areas, we have the potential for man-made disasters such as chemical spills and biohazard threats.  Should a disaster occur, are you ready…really ready? 

September marks the Federal Emergency Management Administration’s (FEMA) sixth annual National Preparedness Month supported by the City of Murphy.  The purpose of National Preparedness Month is to help citizens understand what it means to be ready, which includes specific items to include in kits, making a plan, being informed, and getting involved.

While emergency responders such as police officers and firefighters are here to handle emergencies, resources can easily become overwhelmed regardless of whether you live in a small town or a very large city.  Are you prepared to be self-sufficient for the first 72 hours should a community-wide emergency occur? 

Over half of Texans do not have the four essentials for a minimal level of preparedness:  Three days of pre-packaged food, three days of water (one gallon per person and pet per day), and a working battery-powered radio with NOAA weather capability and extra batteries, and a written family emergency plan.

The following websites can provide you with detailed information on how to make a plan and prepare your family’s emergency kits (including suggested items and those very important “don’t forget” items) to make sure you’re not jus ready, but really ready, visit www.knowhat2do.com, www.ready.gov, and www.homesafetycouncil.org.  For even more information about emergency preparedness, please call the Murphy Fire Department at 972-468-4300.