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September is National Preparedness Month 

Santa Fe – September 10, 2010 – Santa Fe County Office of Emergency Management would like to remind all residents to be prepared for an emergency. Whether it is a weather emergency like a snowstorm or something as simple as a long-term power outage, everyone should be prepared and have a plan. On August 31, 2010, following a request from the Santa Fe County Office of Emergency Management and in conjunction with a national initiative to educate the public, the Santa Fe Board of County Commissioners passed resolution 2010-156 recognizing the month of September as Emergency Preparedness Month in Santa Fe County.

Take the following steps to prepare for an emergency or disaster:

• Assemble an emergency supply kit (bottled water, food, battery operated or hand cranked radio, flashlight with batteries, first-aid kit, whistle, blankets, prescription medications, and any other necessary items)
• Make an emergency plan (establish a safe meeting location in the event an evacuation is necessary. At the location should be a call list of friends and relatives along with the emergency kit)
• Be prepared to help a neighbor
• Work as a team to keep everyone safe (everyone in the household should know and practice the plan before an event happens)
• If you have pets, they should be incorporated into the plan and will need to include a supply of water and food for them

“Everyone should be aware of the different emergencies that can happen in their community and prepare accordingly,” said Santa Fe County Emergency Director, Martin Vigil, “be prepared ahead of time by having plenty of food, water, and necessities such as propane and medications on hand.”

For more information on emergency supply kits or emergency plans visit www.santafecountyfire.org or contact the Office of Emergency Management, (505) 992-3070.