Emergency Preparedness Month
Effective Date: Saturday, September 1st, 2012
WHEREAS, Alaska is a vast land with severe weather and extreme terrain that can lead to unexpected natural disasters. Alaskans each year encounter many different kinds of emergency situations and potential disasters, including excessive snowfall, flooding, wildfires, earthquakes, and avalanches. The possibility of natural and human-caused disasters poses a constant threat to the lives, property, and safety of the people of Alaska; and
WHEREAS, effective preparation offers the best chance to survive the occurrence and aftermath of unexpected disasters and emergency situations; and
WHEREAS, the lives and safety of Alaskans are the highest priority of the State of Alaska, and disaster management and emergency response are of utmost concern to each State agency. In addition, it is important that individuals and communities prepare for emergencies as disasters could disrupt communications and the delivery of food, fuel, and supplies for long periods of time; and
WHEREAS, Alaskans are known to be resourceful, self-reliant, independent, and willing to help others. By learning and preparing, we can be ready to respond to disasters for our own families and then be ready to assist our neighbors; and
WHEREAS, an indispensable part of individual and family disaster preparation is a well-prepared emergency kit including a seven-day supply of food and water, a battery-powered radio, flashlights, extra batteries, a first-aid kit, sanitation items, matches in a waterproof container, a whistle, clothing and blankets, copies of personal documentation, cash, tools, and special needs supplies such as medication; and
WHEREAS, in addition, families should create an emergency plan with meeting locations and escape routes, safe places and contacts in and out of state, instructions to assist young children or the elderly, utility shut-off information, and the location of the disaster kit; and
WHEREAS, during the month of September, which is National Preparedness Month, local and tribal governments, communities, businesses, and nonprofit organizations are invited to participate in outreach and awareness efforts to promote disaster readiness across Alaska.
NOW, THEREFORE, I, Sean Parnell, Governor of the State of Alaska, do hereby proclaim September 2012 as:
Emergency Preparedness Month
in Alaska, and urge all Alaskans to proactively prepare for disaster and emergency by visiting www.ready.alaska.gov, where they can learn how to get a kit, make a plan, and be informed.
Dated: August 24, 2012
