September is National Preparedness Month – We've Got Your Go-To Readiness Resources

Set some time aside in September to make sure your family is prepared for the unforeseen. The US Government has declared September National Preparedness Month and provided a wealth of resources to empower your family in the face of unexpected events.

Did you know...

In the past 10 years, the US has officially declared over 1000 disasters, and that’s not including disasters declared at the state and local level. Chances are, one day, each of us will be affected. Planning now means having better control when you really need it. FEMA recommends that we all start with the following tips.

Six important tips...

• Know where your gas shutoff valve is located – Shutting off gas before an emergency can help avoid gas leaks and explosions.
• Know where your electrical shutoff is located – Electrical problems cause over 25,000 house fires each year. That risk grows during a disaster. Shut off breakers or pull out fuses in the breaker or fuse box.
• Make an emergency communication plan for your family – An emergency communication plan means family members know where to go, what to do, and how to reconnect and reunite when disaster strikes.
• Make sure you have insurance – Does it cover flood or earthquake? Floods are the most common and costly natural disaster. Just a few inches of water can cause thousands of dollars of damage.
• Plan for your pets – Locate pet-friendly shelters for your furry friends. Many emergency shelters can’t accept pets, for public health reasons. Service animals are always welcome.
• Know evacuation routes – Many communities have evacuation routes, learn about them. Minutes matter during a disaster

Learning is power!

Ready.gov has put together an amazing set of resources to help your family be in the best possible position to face the worst possible scenario. All of these interactive resources are designed to educate and involve the whole family.

• Build an emergency supply kit with a checklist for kids and parents.
• Communication planning worksheets for kids and parents.
• Special considerations for seniors and for pets.
• Insurance discussion worksheet.
• You’ll learn even more essential tips by watching these Scary Simple video shorts from FEMA.

So, what is the theme?

What is the common thread in all of this information? The time for learning is before a disaster strikes – not during. Disasters don’t plan ahead, but you can! Take advantage of National Preparedness Month and get others involved as well!

You can also plan ahead for your family’s Dental Care.

Call Aspen Grove Dental Associates at (615) 790-8494, or request an appointment online.