September is National Preparedness Month

As the island continues to recover from Typhoon Mawar, Governor Lou Leon Guerrero signed the proclamation declaring September as National Preparedness Month.

The month is to bring awareness on the importance of preparing for disasters and emergencies that could happen at any time.    With this year’s theme “Preparing For Older Adults,” government officials acknowledge that during natural disasters, our man'amko are among the most vulnerable.

Federal Emergency Management Agency external affairs officer Veronica Verde told KUAM News, "There are many several factors that make older adults more at risk during a disaster, such as a greater likelihood of chronic conditions that require medication, a greater reliance on assistive devices such as walkers or glasses, and supportive caregivers, and an increased likelihood of being socially isolated. Disaster response begins at home, within our family and in our communities. That's why before the next disaster we all need to work together to be prepared."

For more ways to prepare for a natural disaster,  follow Guam Homeland Security/OCD online on Facebook, Instagram, and their website ready.gov/september. To view preparedness tips, resources available and activities by emergency management partners.