September is National Preparedness Month, part of an effort to help us better prepare for and respond to the potential hazards our communities may face. This year’s theme is, “Don’t Wait. Communicate. Make Your Emergency Plan Today,” stressing the importance of creating a plan to keep you and your family safe in the event of a disaster. Emergencies can arise in an instant, and while we often can’t prevent them, taking proper precautions can help limit their impact.

Last year, a “microburst” in East Syracuse took down trees and left thousands of residents in the village without power for up to a week. Having an event of this magnitude hit so close to home reminds us that events like this are all too common. Disaster can strike immediately, and you may lose electricity or have to leave your home unexpectedly, so it’s essential to prepare.

Gathering with your family to discuss what to do in the event of an emergency is one of the simplest steps you can take to help ensure your safety. Be sure to agree on a safe place to meet outside your home, and make an evacuation plan for all family members – including pets. Also take a moment to check your home’s fire extinguishers and smoke and carbon monoxide detectors or install them if you haven’t done so already. These safety features can alert you to most immediate dangers in your home and help prevent unnecessary fire damage or severe injury.

Many of us assume that first responders will always be able to reach us immediately in the event of a disaster. Unfortunately, this isn’t always the case – dangerous conditions, road closures and the need to address immediate threats to the disabled and elderly are just some of the factors that can impact response time. That’s why Onondaga County and the American Red Cross recently launched the 3DayOK campaign, urging residents to prepare emergency kits with enough essential items to last three days. Your family’s emergency kit should contain at least a three-day supply of food and water, as well as a flashlight and first aid kit. Other important items to consider include medications, copies of important personal documents, cash, soap and blankets.

During a crisis, every moment counts. To stay up to date on severe weather, highway closures and other emergencies in your area, consider signing up to receive alerts by phone, email or text through the NY-Alert system. For more information on this vital program, you can visit www.nyalert.gov, call 1-888-697-6972 or download the program’s new mobile app, iAlertz. Or, for general help in Onondaga County, feel free to contact the county’s helpline by calling 2-1-1; assistance is available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.

I hope you find these tips useful and will consider taking steps to prepare your family for the emergencies and disasters that could affect our communities. As always, my door is open. If you have any questions or concerns, please don’t hesitate to contact me at StirpeA@assembly.state.ny.us or by calling 452-1115.