9/9/2021
State agencies work together to offer preparedness tips to citizens
CHARLESTON, W.Va.— With “Prepare to Protect” as this year’s theme, Gov. Jim Justice has proclaimed September as West Virginia Preparedness Month.
As part of National Preparedness Month, the West Virginia Emergency Management Division joins partners at the Federal Emergency Management Agency as well as state and local agencies, volunteer organizations, and the private sector to recognize the need for preparedness.
With outreach education sponsored by FEMA’s Ready Campaign, EMD and its partners are committed to increase preparedness in the community by sharing these vital lessons with West Virginians.
“With the severe weather we’ve faced already this year—flooding, an ice storm, extreme heat, and the remnants of Hurricane Ida—we must be prepared to protect our families from the destruction of these events,” said Gov. Jim Justice.
The theme this year is “Prepare to Protect. Preparing for disasters is protecting everyone you love.” It encourages citizens to take actions now: take time to build a kit, make a plan, and check insurance policies and coverage for such hazards as floods, torrential rains and damaging winds.
“Preparedness can seem like common sense, but it’s common sense that saves lives,” said EMD Director GE McCabe. “Involving your family in planning, creating a savings plan so you’re prepared for emergency costs, and knowing how to complete practical tasks like shutting off water and gas to your home are steps you can take now to better prepare for emergencies.”
As West Virginia continues to combat COVID-19, there is no better time to be involved than this September. Use #WVPrepared with your posts to join the conversation, and follow EMD on social media https://www.facebook.com/WVEMD/ and https://twitter.com/WVEMD for preparedness tips and more.