AF emergency managers emphasize planning during National Preparedness Month

  • Published
  • By Airman 1st Class Malcolm Mayfield
  • 90th Missile Wing Public Affairs
F.E. WARREN AIR FORCE BASE, Wyo. --  September is National Preparedness Month and on Warren this means winter is right around the corner, so it's time to check and prepare emergency kits along with ensure peoples vehicles are ready for the season.

This year's theme is "Don't wait. Communicate. Make your emergency plan today," which encompasses development of evacuation plans and family communication plans in the event of separation.

With winter so close, communication and emergency plans are all the more important. Having a plan ready and an emergency kit available can make all the difference when you're in a bad situation.

"When it comes to winter safety we want to make sure people are prepared by having safety kits and a plan," said Senior Airman Matthew Lennard, 90th Civil Engineer Squadron Emergency Management Flight plans and operations section lead.

At home and in vehicles, the emergency management team emphasizes the important of having key items available in a survival kit. A few item include, non-perishable food, water, a radio and a first-aid kit.

There are risks associated with being unprepared and everyone in the Mighty Ninety community, Airman and civilian, should be aware.

Working together to plan out for an emergency is a necessity for the Warren community throughout the year for any possible event that could occur.

"Preparedness is the shared responsibility of our entire nation," said Deputy Secretary of Defense Robert Work. "Preparing individuals, families, components and installations for disasters and emergencies -- from flooding to an active shooter -- ensures the strength of our workforce and our ability to continue to safeguard U.S. security."

Emergency management offices throughout the Air Force are working to enhance the awareness of our Airmen, to keep us executing the Air Force mission in a safe environment and providing resources to help manage off duty activities in a safe manner.

"The emphasis should be to increase the comprehensiveness of your campaign, engaging all members of your community and highlighting the importance of preparedness, not just during National Preparedness Month, but year round," said Harley Connors, the AFCEC emergency management division chief.

The Emergency Management Flight on Warren urges people to not only make a plan, but to stick to it.

"It's up to the individual to stick to that plan, if nobody knows where you are going they have no clue where to send help," Lennard said. "Not only can you hurt yourself, but you put others at risk, those that have to go out and find you."

At the end of the day, the only way to ensure you are as safe as you can be, is by taking the time to ensure you have a plan.

"It's important to have time set aside that focuses on preparedness because when people have the right information, they generally do the right thing when the real emergency happens," James Martin, the emergency management education and training analyst in AFCEC's Readiness Directorate. "It literally translates into saving lives."