Township promotes National Preparedness Month

The Hanover Township Emergency Services Unit is urging residents to become better informed during the 10th annual National Preparedness Month.

Sponsored by the Federal Emergency Management Agency, National Preparedness Month aims to educate and empower Americans to prepare for and respond to all types of emergencies, including natural disasters and potential terrorist attacks.

FEMA reports that 70 percent of Americans haven't practiced for a disaster. This year's national theme, "Don't Wait. Communicate. Make Your Emergency Plan Today," encourages families to act now, and talk about a plan of action in case of an emergency. Proper communication is key when reacting to a disaster in your neighborhood.

"Community outreach and education is a big component of our service to the township," said William T. Burke, director of Hanover Township Emergency Services. "By developing plans for emergency situations, our community will be able to respond and recover faster, and we are here to help aid in that process."

Hanover Township is encouraging residents to get educated and take part in community activities during September for National Preparedness Month. FEMA is working with other agencies to help improve disaster readiness throughout the country. Informational and instructional materials on emergency preparedness may be obtained at: www.ready.gov.

For questions about emergency preparedness or if you are interested in joining the Hanover Township Emergency Services Unit, call (630) 837-0301 or email htes@hanover-township.org.