FORT DRUM, N.Y. -- The cool air and the ever-changing foliage are signs of fall in the North Country. Although winter is still a few months away, it is not unusual for snow to begin falling in October.

September, also known as National Preparedness Month, is a perfect time for community members to take steps to be ready, according to Terry Byard, Fort Drum's Directorate of Plans, Training, Mobilization and Security emergency management chief.

"We want to remind the community to be ready and prepared. That's one of the most important things they can do," he said.

Hurricane Sandy, which hit the Northeastern coast in late October last year, is another example of the importance of preparation. Although the North Country did not see the full effects of the storm, it's always important to be prepared, Byard added.

In observance of National Preparedness Month, DPTMS has adopted the Federal Emergency Management Agency's Ready.gov to provide Fort Drum Soldiers, Family Members and Civilians information to ensure they are ready for all weather conditions or emergencies.

The Drum Ready campaign focuses on three main ideas: build a kit, make a plan and be informed.

Build a kit

It is important for Families to be prepared and have enough supplies for each person to sustain them at least 72 hours, Byard said.

"That will greatly minimize the impact during any type of natural disaster," he explained.

Prepare for different situations -- storms, snow and power outages.

Basic items to add to a home emergency kit include:

* One gallon of water for each person for at least three days (for drinking and hygiene)

* Three-day supply of nonperishable food and can opener for people and pets

* Battery-powered or hand-crank radio, and a National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration radio

* Flashlight with batteries

* First aid kit and any prescription medication

* Moist towelettes, garbage bags and plastic ties for sanitation

* Baby items -- formula, diapers and wipes

* Tools

* Blankets or sleeping bags

* Extra clothing, coats and boots -- especially in winter months

"Winter weather can be ugly," Byard said. "It's smart to have a little winter emergency kit in your vehicle too -- a few blankets, food and water."

Make a plan

Make sure every member of the Family knows how to respond in the event of an emergency, Byard said.

"Make sure everyone knows the important phone numbers and where the emergency kit is," he said.

Other things to consider should include how to contact each other, where Family Members should meet if separated, and different plans for different scenarios. Create a plan to shelter in place and a plan to get away. In situations where it is safer to meet at a different location than the home, designate an out-of-town contact person who can help relay information.

Be informed

Listen to television and radio broadcasts when possible. Call 772-DRUM (3786) for Fort Drum weather conditions, and check the U.S. Army Fort Drum and 10th Mountain Division Facebook page at www.facebook.com/drum.10thmountain for additional information.

There also is a Ready Army website that has helpful information specifically geared toward military Families and children, Byard said.

"It helps children be more prepared and less scared about potential emergencies," he said. "There's even an interactive video game for kids.

"We don't want to alarm anybody, but knowing you're prepared for that situation really gives you peace of mind," Byard continued.

The installation recently practiced its own preparedness during the annual emergency management / anti-terrorism response exercise last week. For more information about the exercise, see the article on page B3.

For more information about preparedness or for help creating an emergency response plan, visit the DPTMS Drum Ready link at www.drum.army.mil/ptm/Pages/DrumReadyProgram.aspx. Links to fact sheets and other information are located in the left column under Drum Ready.

The Ready Army website can be viewed at www.acsim.army.mil/readyarmy/.