State of Maine
Department of Defense, Veterans and Emergency Management
Maine Emergency Management Agency
CONTACT: Vanessa Corson
CELL PHONE: (207) 592-6201
EMAIL: vanessa.corson@maine.gov
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
AUGUSTA, MAINE — In observance of National Preparedness Month in September, the Maine Emergency Management Agency (MEMA) encourages individuals and households to use this as an opportunity to create and practice emergency plans as well as assemble and update supplies for emergency kits.
“Maine has experienced a variety of emergencies during the past year,” said MEMA Director Pete Rogers. “National Preparedness Month is an important reminder to prepare now so that our families and communities are ready for the next emergency”.
The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) designated September as National Preparedness Month in 2004 to raise awareness about the importance of preparing for disasters and emergencies, whether natural or manmade, that could happen at any time. The following are key elements to preparedness:
KNOW YOUR RISK –
Understand the risks you may face. Most communities face many types of hazards. It is important to learn the risks specific to your home and the ways to assess your risks if you are away from home. Learn how and when to take action before, during, and after different hazards.
MAKE A PLAN –
Make a communications plan and prepare for both evacuating and sheltering. Prepare for your family’s unique needs with customized plans and supplies. In addition, use your social networks to help friends and family members prepare and participate in community-wide disaster preparedness activities. Moreover, you should gather emergency supplies and secure the information and important documents you will need to start your recovery. If you’re an older adult or work with and support older adult communities visit Ready.gov/older-adults and this caregivers guide for resources. For more information on preparing with disabilities visit Ready.gov/disability.
TAKE ACTION –
Build an emergency kit for your home as well as your vehicle. Sign up to receive emergency alerts and notifications for your area. Monitor local weather reports. When you receive an alert, follow instructions in the notification or listen to your local authorities. Learn about automated alerts issued during emergencies including Wireless Emergency Alerts (WEA), the Emergency Alert System (EAS), and the Integrated Public Alert and Warning System (IPAWS).
For safety and preparedness information, visit MEMA’s website or find us on Facebook, X and Nextdoor.
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