CHIÈVRES, Belgium -- Disasters can strike at any moment, and individuals should take action to prepare themselves for emergency situations. September is National Preparedness Month, and this year's national theme is "Disasters Don't Plan Ahead. You Can."
Each week has a special theme, and the first week's theme is "Make a Plan for Yourself, Family and Friends." People should make an emergency plan, learn their evacuation zones, sign up for alerts and warnings in their area, check their insurance coverage, and set up a financial plan.
Make an Emergency Plan and Learn Evacuation Zones
Ready, the national public service campaign by U.S. Department of Homeland Security, provides tips on how to create a plan for yourself, family and friends. When putting together a plan, people should consider the specific needs of their household. This includes medical needs, dietary needs, disabilities, cultural and religious considerations, pets or service animals, and ages of each household member. It is also important to collect contact information of each person and other important people and offices such as medical facilities, doctors, schools or service providers, and identify evacuation zones in the area. The emergency plan should be readily accessible to each person, whether they have a copy in their wallet, backpack or purse, or it is placed in a central location in the home. Lastly, household members should review and practice the emergency plan regularly.
Sign Up for Alerts and Warnings
The U.S. Army Disaster Personnel Accountability and Assessment System, commonly referred to as ADPAAS, requires U.S. Soldiers, Department of the Army civilians, contractors stationed overseas and their Families to include their contact and location information. The system allows personnel to report accounting status, complete needs assessments and view reference information. To access ADPAAS, go to https://adpaas.army.mil. Personnel and their families stationed overseas should also register for the U.S. Department of State's Smart Traveler Enrollment Program so they can receive security messages in the event of a terrorist threat, security incident planned demonstrations, natural disasters or other emergency situations in the country they reside in or countries they visit during their tour. In an emergency, U.S. citizens are advised to contact their nearest U.S. Embassy or Consulate.
Check Insurance Coverage
It is important to review and understand the coverage in your property (homeowners or renters), health and life insurance to ensure the policies provide sufficient coverage. Individuals should contact their insurance company if they have questions or want to make changes to their policy.
Set up a Financial Plan
People can experience challenges with rebuilding their lives after a disaster or another emergency. It is recommended to save money in an emergency savings account. Army Community Service's Financial Readiness Program has financial counselors to assist with financial planning. Contact ACS at DSN 366-6824 or +32 (0)6532-6824.
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