If you live in Northeastern New Jersey, you’ve probably seen the Urban Area Security Initiative (UASI) Region TV, Internet, and Outdoor Advertising Campaign. Emergency management programs in this region receive funding from the NJ Homeland Security Department dedicated to the unique planning, organization, equipment, training and exercise needs of these high density urban areas. This funding helps them build a stronger and sustainable capacity to prevent, protect, mitigate, respond to and recover from all types of disasters, including acts of terrorism.
While local emergency management officials take care of regional planning efforts, you can take action today to make sure your family members are safe in adverse conditions.
- Stay informed of emergencies and dangers in your area – the more you know, the better you can prepare or react quickly to adverse conditions. There are many ways to get information about emergencies and disasters. Numerous counties in your area have their own social media or alert tools where you can choose to receive emergency alerts – we encourage you to stay in touch with local authorities. There are many ways to easily stay informed about emergencies and disasters. How to stay informed.
- Prepare your household – Make a kit, have a plan, decide how you will stay in touch with your loved ones. Emergency authorities may ask you to evacuate or shelter in place.
- Communicate with family members who have chronic illnesses or disabilities, or those who live alone. Are you looking after someone with special needs, such as an elderly person or a disabled child? Find out how to help them maintain their independence and / or meet their disaster needs. Consider using Register Loan – NJ Special Needs Registry for Disasters to help local authorities plan for disaster-related needs of older people and people with disabilities.
- Parents should monitor their children’s experiences and feelings regarding an emergency or disaster. Visit Ready.gov/kids or the American Center for Disease Control for information on children and disasters. The NJ’s Department of Social Services also recommends tools for talking to children about disasters.
- Connect with others in your neighborhood, apartment complex, apartment building or community before, during and after adverse conditions. Share official information about the emergency. Check for family members or neighbors who may be isolated during emergency events; and pay special attention to them during long-term power outages. Join your neighbors in neighborhood preparedness efforts by forming or joining a community emergency response team.
- Don’t forget your pets! Many of us consider pets to be part of the family, so make sure they are included in your family preparation plans.