The City of Alexandria’s Office of Emergency Management (OEM) is urging residents to take part in National Preparedness Month throughout September. The initiative, which began after the September 11, 2001 attacks, aims to raise awareness about disaster readiness and has since become a national campaign focused on building community resilience.
This year’s theme, “Preparedness Starts at Home,” emphasizes basic emergency planning for individuals and families. The OEM recommends four main actions: understanding local risks such as flooding, severe storms, and power outages; creating a family emergency plan; assembling an emergency supply kit with essential items like food, water, medications, flashlights, and batteries; and getting involved in community preparedness efforts.
Residents are encouraged to learn more about local hazards by visiting the city’s website. Family emergency plans can be developed using resources available at ready.gov/plan. Guidance on building an emergency supply kit is also provided online through Build A Kit.
Community involvement is highlighted as a key aspect of preparedness. Residents can participate by taking first aid or CPR classes offered by organizations such as the Red Cross or joining the City’s Community Emergency Response Team (CERT), where they can receive training in disaster response skills including fire safety and light search and rescue.
Throughout National Preparedness Month, OEM staff will host several public events at locations including City Hall Market Square Farmers’ Market and Alfred Street Baptist Church Health Fair. These events offer opportunities for residents to meet the team and learn more about staying prepared.
For those interested in further engagement or hosting an informational table at future events, OEM invites contact via email at EOC.Staff@alexandriava.gov.
More information about emergency preparedness resources is available on the Office of Emergency Management’s website at alexandriava.gov/EmergencyManagement.
