September marks the 13th National Preparedness Month (www.ready.gov/september), focused on the theme: “Don't Wait. Communicate. Make Your Emergency Plan Today.”
The goal of the Federal Emergency Management Agency-backed campaign is to enhance preparedness and response for all types of emergencies, including natural disasters and potential terrorist attacks.
Sept. 30 is National PrepareAthon! Day (https://community.fema.gov/), which focuses on bringing together stakeholders, communities and individuals to take action on preparedness.
Pediatricians are encouraged to reinforce disaster preparedness with families. Access the AAP National Preparedness Month webpage at www.aap.org/disasters/preparednessmonth for an AAP call to action; communication strategies; influenza prevention and control strategies; and personal preparedness planning tips.
The Academy and Centers for Disease Control and Prevention also are sharing stories about lessons learned and steps to take to improve preparedness for children at http://1.usa.gov/1IVJoCX.
This National Preparedness Month, encourage families to create a family communication plan (http://bit.ly/2a0H7qK) and an Emergency Contact Card (http://bit.ly/2akXX5D). Review the AAP Children and Youth with Special Needs webpage (www.aap.org/disasters/cyshcn) for additional ideas. Questions? Email [email protected].
