Norwalk Residents Encouraged To Make A Plan For Disasters, Emergencies

Information via the city of Norwalk

NORWALK, CT — In light of National Preparedness Month, the Norwalk Health Department and

city officials encourage residents to make a plan for disasters and emergencies.

According to a news release provided by the city, the health department and emergency management office within the Norwalk Fire Department, among other city officials, community partners and volunteers, work hard all year to ensure they are prepared to protect residents from potential emergencies and disasters.

During the fall season, disasters such as hurricanes and flooding become more prevalent. This year's National Preparedness Month theme is "start a conversation," which emphasizes the importance of planning for a disaster with family members or neighbors by discussing it in advance.

Families may think they are protecting the people they love by avoiding difficult conversations, but emergency officials say planning for a potential disaster by having the conversation in advance is critical to being ready and staying safe should an emergency arise, according to the city.

In recognition of National Preparedness Month, the community is encouraged to have a conversation with their family about creating an emergency plan for their family in case of a disaster. It is crucial for every household to have a plan of action in place and to practice it with members of their family, city officials said.

By taking the following simple steps, residents can build a preparedness plan at their own pace:

• Set aside a time to talk to family members when everyone is calm and relaxed.
• It may help to hold the discussions over a set time period so decisions aren't rushed and people feel more comfortable talking about the topic.
• Talk about steps you've taken to prepare and encourage others to ask questions about preparedness actions that might work for them.

Residents are also reminded to visit www.norwalkct.gov to sign up for Everbridge emergency alerts sent from the city, as well as weather alerts from the National Weather Service.