National Preparedness Month: A Critical Reminder for Military Families to Have a Master Plan
September is National Preparedness Month, and it serves as a critical reminder for military families to establish a master plan. Frequent relocations and deployments make military life unpredictable, and having a preparedness plan is not just helpful—it's essential. It ensures that your family can quickly respond to natural disasters or emergencies no matter where you are.
The Three C-List: Essentials for Preparedness
A starting point in a preparedness plan is to create checklists, an up-to-date contact list, and a can-or-can-not-do reference document for each family member.
- Checklists: Checklists are vital documents that provide clear and organized guidance on securing necessary supplies like water, batteries, and medicine. They reduce the risk of forgetting important steps in securing your family's safety. The Department of Homeland Security offers comprehensive lists and free resources to help you stay ready for any emergency.
- Contact List: Ensure all your emergency contacts are current, especially your DEERS information. Your service member's unit will always need an up-to-date emergency contact, so reviewing that information is a great practice. Military OneSource provides a wide range of resources, including printable forms for your disaster kits and contact information for emergency relief services at your installation.
- Can-and-Cannot List: Customize a list for each family member to inform first responders of any special needs, such as mobility issues or necessary medical equipment. The Centers for Disease Control provides tools to guide you in noting dietary restrictions, medical needs, or communication barriers.
NMFA Stands with Military Families
Even four years after the COVID-19 pandemic, the importance of emergency preparedness remains clear. At NMFA, we recognize that military families are often on the move, making it crucial to have an up-to-date preparedness plan when adjusting to new installations. Our mission is to support families so they can thrive, no matter where they are, and this month, we encourage families to review or create their master plans to ensure they are ready for any situation.
The saying, “anything that can go wrong, will go wrong,” resonates strongly with military families. However, by being proactive and developing a comprehensive plan, they can face challenges with confidence and resilience, ensuring they are well-prepared for any situation.
By: Angela Sablan Tenorio, Content Manager
