David Murphy

PRESS RELEASE

WHITE COUNTY, Ga. – We have seen over the last year that the norm can change in a moment. Therefore, it is important for us to take the time, to protect our lives and families, to prepare for unforeseen emergencies. White County Emergency Management Agency, along with the Georgia Emergency Management and Homeland Security Agency, are encouraging residents to prepare for disasters during National Preparedness Month in September.

This month-long initiative is intended to increase awareness and inspire Georgians to be prepared for any natural or man-made disaster. White County will join a nationwide coalition of thousands of private, public, and nonprofit organizations to motivate our citizens to take the necessary steps to ensure their homes, workplaces and communities are prepared for disasters and emergencies of all kinds.

“Over the years, we’ve seen how lives can be changed in an instant, so we need to prepare for all possibilities,” said David Murphy, White County Emergency Management Director. “During National Preparedness Month, we want our citizens to get a jump start on preparing all potential disasters, whether natural or man-made. We must prepare ourselves and families, so that our lives, livelihoods and communities can be protected.”

Each week, there will be topic or theme to focus on, so at the end of the month we should be well prepared. The topics are as follows:

• Make A Plan: Talk to your friends and family about how you will communicate before, during, and after a disaster. Make sure to update your plan based on the Centers for Disease Control recommendations due to the Coronavirus.
• Build A Kit: Gather supplies that will last for several days after a disaster for
everyone living in your home. Don’t forget to consider the unique needs each
person or pet may have in case you have to evacuate quickly. Update your kits
and supplies based on recommendations by the Centers for Disease Control.
• Low-Cost, No-Cost Preparedness: Limit the impacts that disasters have on you and your family. Know the risk of disasters in your area. Learn how to make your home stronger in the face of storms and other common hazards. Check your insurance coverage to make sure it is up to date.
• Teach Youth About Preparedness: Talk to your kids about preparing for
emergencies and what to do in case you are separated. Reassure them by
providing information about how they can get involved.

Residents can learn more tips on how to prepare and plan before a natural or man-made disaster by visiting gema.georgia.gov/plan-prepare/ready-georgia.
To learn about specific risks in your area, contact us at (706) 865-9500 or visit the website above.

About GEMA/HS
As part of the Office of the Governor, the Georgia Emergency Management and Homeland Security Agency collaborates with local, state, and federal governments in partnership with private sector and non-governmental organizations to protect life and property against man-made and natural emergencies. GEMA/HS’s Ready Georgia website and preparedness campaign
provides Georgians with the knowledge needed to effectively prepare for disasters. Go to gema.georgia.gov/plan-prepare/ready-georgia for information on developing a custom emergency plan and Ready kit