Communications focus for National Preparedness Month

Flooding in China, Libya and Brazil, fire in Hawaii, an earthquake in Morocco — they’re all happening somewhere else, but those of us living in Southwest Nebraska know they can quickly become a reality. Even an earthquake isn’t completely out of the question, and neither is any other man-made or natural disaster in our area.

When one of those possibilities becomes a reality, we’ll be thankful we heeded some of the advice and took some of the steps recommended by agencies like the Southwest Nebraska Public Health Department during this September’s National Preparedness Month.

With the advent of nearly universal wireless or internet communication upon which we all rely, it’s important not to overlook the possibility it can quickly be cut off.

And, even if phones continue to function, in today’s world of smartphones, many people do not memorize or remember critical contact information they may need if disaster strikes.

SWNPHD points out some of the key questions to explore while constructing your communication plan.

• How will you receive emergency notifications?

• Do you have a dedicated phone charger to grab and take with you if you need to evacuate?

• Do you have key information for family members written down, including phone numbers, social media names, email addresses, etc.

• Do you have emergency contact information for family members?

• Do you have your medical providers’ contact information written down?

• How will you let family members know you are safe?

• How often do your family members expect you to check in with them?

Once you have your communication plan constructed, it is important to practice your plan to ensure phone numbers are correct and everyone understands the plan. Share your family’s emergency plan with your extended family to make sure they can know you are safe as well.

For more information contact SWNPHD at 308-345-4223. Southwest Nebraska Public Health Department serves Chase, Dundy, Frontier, Furnas, Hayes, Hitchcock, Keith, Perkins, and Red Willow counties. The website swhealth.ne.gov contains many resources and additional information helpful to prevent disease, and promote and protect health. Follow us on Facebook, Instagram, YouTube and TikTok. For questions, call 308-345-4223, one number three locations (McCook, Imperial & Ogallala), Southwest Nebraska Public Health Department.