Delaware County, Indiana

National Preparedness Month September 2011: A Time to Remember, A Time to Prepare.

National Preparedness Month (NPM), sponsored by the Ready Campaign and Citizen Corps, kicks off this September and you can sign up as a Coalition Member today by clicking here. NPM is held each September to encourage Americans to take steps to prepare for emergencies in their homes, businesses and communities.

This year's slogan is: A Time to Remember, A Time to Prepare.  This year also marks the ten year anniversary of the 9/11 terrorist attacks and as America  honors local first responders, FEMA will continue to promote volunteer and community service programs that help us prepare for, respond to, and recover from disasters, and spread the message that preparedness is a shared responsibility with an ever-expanding team.  

For more information on how to get involved in community preparedness and for highlights of events and activities from last year's NPM, check out the NPM 2010 After Action Report.    

Summer Fire Safety Tips from FEMA 

As skies clear and weather turns warmer, the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) and the U.S. Fire Administration (USFA) warn that careless handling of outdoor grills can ruin parties and picnics -- and entire summers. In 2010, U.S. hospital emergency rooms treated an estimated 8,600 people for fireworks-related injuries, and although the Fourth of July has passed, 73 percent of fireworks injuries occurred between 18 June and 18 July.

"When celebrating the Fourth of July, Americans need to remember to use fireworks, fires and barbecues with care. The best way to enjoy fireworks is to visit public displays held by trained professionals," said Regional Administrator, Region X, Ken Murphy.  "Summer holidays should be fun and generate good memories, not pain and remorse. Have fun, but be safe."  Click here for fireworks and grilling tips you can follow to remain safe all summer long.