Personal Preparedness

September is national preparedness month

National Preparedness Month is an observance each September to raise awareness about the importance of preparing for disasters and emergencies that could happen at any time. 

The 2023 National Preparedness Month theme is “Take Control in 1, 2, 3”. The campaign will focus on preparing older adults for disasters, specifically older adults from communities that are disproportionally impacted by the all-hazard events, which continue to threaten the nation.

We know older adults can face greater risks when it comes to the multitude of extreme weather events and emergencies we now face, especially if they are living alone, are low-income, have a disability, or live in rural areas.

For additional information: Older Adults | Ready.gov

EVACUATION - KNOW WHAT TO DO

Sometimes evacuating is necessary for your safety. Local law enforcement, first responders and emergency management try to give residents and visitors as much notice as possible so they are ready. It is important to know the evacuation levels and what they mean. 

 LEVEL 1 - BE READY: Be aware of the danger in your area and start preparing for possible evacuation. Monitor local media and check on neighbors. If you do not already have an evacuation plan or a go kit, assemble these now. Know how and where you will evacuate. Conditions can change suddenly, and you may not receive a LEVEL 2 - BE SET warning before you are ordered to LEVEL 3 - GO NOW.  Prepare both the inside and outside of your home. Leave if you feel unsafe, do not wait for an official evacuation order.

LEVEL 2 - BE SET: Be prepared for sudden evacuation. People who need help or more time to evacuate — people with disabilities, people with small children, people with medical conditions and people with large animals — should evacuate at this level. Have your go kit in your vehicle. Stay informed with local law enforcement and fire departments. Always remember to leave if you feel unsafe, do not wait for an official evacuation order. 

LEVEL 3 - GO NOW:  Danger in your area is current or imminent. Follow directions from law enforcement or fire departments and do not return home until officials have determined it is safe. Notification it is safe will be given as soon as possible.

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Preparedness is the foundation for building resilient communities. While Pierce County Emergency Management focuses on preparing our whole community for disasters, you also have a role to play in emergency preparedness. By planning ahead, you can increase your ability to survive and thrive in the face of disaster, everything from an earthquake to a major winter storm.

Pierce County Employee Emergency Preparedness

Pierce County Executive Bruce Dammeier encourages all County employees to be prepared at work and at home.  This includes having 14 days of supplies on hand and a communications plan with their family, to help get Pierce County back to normal after an emergency.

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