September is Preparedness Month in Illinois

Cites importance of simple planning, lifesaving skills to ready for unexpected

SPRINGFIELD — Gov. Bruce Rauner today proclaimed September Preparedness Month in Illinois during closing ceremonies of the 2018 Illinois Emergency Management Agency Training Summit in Springfield, where the governor greeted a crowd of more than 600 first responders and emergency workers.

Rauner underscored the importance of family and community preparedness in his address, held in conjunction with what is also National Preparedness Month.

“Many people have the mindset that ‘it can’t happen here,’ but history has shown that a disaster can strike anywhere and at any time,” Rauner said. “I want to encourage all Illinoisans to spend a few moments during this month to prepare for potential disasters, both natural and man-made.”

The theme for this year’s National Preparedness Month campaign is Disasters Happen. Prepare Now. Learn How.  The state is partnering with the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) in the monthlong campaign that encourages Americans to take simple steps to prepare for emergencies in their homes, businesses and communities. Having a plan that includes where to go and how to communicate during disasters, as well as an emergency supply kit, could save the lives of your family, friends, neighbors and employees.

“This is a great time to learn lifesaving skills such as CPR and first aid, check your insurance policies and coverage for hazards such as floods, earthquakes and tornadoes,” said Acting IEMA Director William Robertson.  “Make sure to consider the costs associated with disasters and develop a plan to save for an emergency. Also, know how to perform practical safety steps like shutting off the water and gas in your home. Remember, there is no one more capable of planning for your situation than you.”

In this day and age of families constantly on the go, it is critical for people to have multiple ways to receive notifications and updated information about severe weather warnings. FEMA offers a free mobile app that provides fast and reliable weather alerts from the National Weather Service.  The app can be tailored to offer alerts for up to five different locations nationwide. The mobile app also can help locate open shelters and disaster resource centers near you in an emergency.

IEMA offers disaster preparedness information on the Ready Illinois website (www.Ready.Illinois.gov), a one-stop resource for detailed information about what to do before, during and after disasters. During large-scale disasters, IEMA uses the Ready Illinois website, Facebook and Twitter pages to provide critical information about the incident, including shelter locations, road closures, safety information, photos and more.

For more information about emergency and disaster preparedness, visit ready.illinois.gov.