Often the best plan and resources at your disposal during an emergency are the ones that were put into place before the event happened. That’s why being ready as an individual, family and community is so important.
Alisha Gimbel, Emergency Management Coordinator, said it’s ideal to think through an emergency before needs ever arise.
“People have great intentions but it’s easy to get busy and have the idea to do something but never get there. It’s never going to be convenient to stop and plan ahead, but it’s worth it.”
The City’s Office of Emergency Management helps residents stay informed about emergency events through a local alert system, and provides information and resources for household emergency planning. In large-scale events such as severe storms, Emergency Management coordinates the City’s emergency response and recovery. Additionally, the office coordinates relief efforts to other areas and their residents, such as following Hurricanes Laura and Delta last year.
In North Texas, preparing for winter storms, rain events, hail and tornadoes is vital.
“We say that there is not a tornado season because it can happen at any time of the year,” Gimbel said.
A key emphasis in preparedness education this year is documenting household items. Whether a homeowner or a renter, personal property insurance is often easier to make claims upon if the content owner has proof the items previously existed. Recording receipts, item serial numbers, making lists and simply taking photos of each room in the residence goes a long way to ensure the cost of any lost contents can be reimbursed.
Community members can bolster their own readiness and help others by befriending neighbors. In emergencies, residents will likely call upon those closest to them for things like rides or checking on their home and pets.
“It’s good to have a support network that you can count on with give-and-take,” Gimbel said. “We encourage people to get involved. Know the resources and the needs around you. The more connected you are, the better.”
For help with emergency plans, lists and kits, visit www.cor.net/oem. Sign up for alerts and notify first responders of any need or medical condition at www.cor.net/alert or by calling 972-744-0900.
| PREPAREDNESS MONTH 2021 WEEKLY THEMES |
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| WEEK 1 SEPT. 1-4: MAKE A PLAN Talk to your family and loved ones about how you will communicate and act before, during and after a disaster. |
| WEEK 2 SEPT. 5-11: BUILD A KIT Gather supplies that will last for several days after a disaster for everyone living in your home. Don’t forget to consider the unique needs each person or pet may have in case you have to evacuate quickly. |
| WEEK 3 SEPT. 12-18: PREPARE FOR DISASTERS Limit the impact that disasters have on you and your family. Know the risk of disasters in your area and check your insurance coverage. Learn how to make your dwelling stronger in the face of storms and other common hazards. Plan to act fast if you receive a local warning or alert. |
| WEEK 4 SEPT. 19-24: TEACH YOUTH ABOUT PREPAREDNESS Talk to your children about preparing for emergencies and what to do in case you are separated. Specifically talk about rally points and communication methods. |
| WEEK 5 SEPT. 26-30: REVIEW YOUR PLAN Review your plan and supplies. Check with your loved ones about their understanding of and their part in the plan. |
