September Designated 'Emergency Preparedness Month'

By Rose Driscoll

The Pennsylvania State Senate has approved a resolution designating September 2014 as “Emergency Preparedness Month” in Pennsylvania.

Senate Resolution 440, sponsored by state Sen. Bob Mensch (R-24th), encourages citizens to take simple steps to prepare for emergencies in their homes, businesses and communities. Preparation for these weather-related disasters includes the maintenance of an emergency kit that includes nonperishable food, water, medications and a battery-operated radio; the practice of family fire drills; and education about evacuation procedures and shelter-in-place directives.

Pennsylvania has a history of flooding, tornadoes, snowstorms and other natural and manmade disasters. This resolution is one part a large-scale public awareness campaign aimed at protecting lives and property.