Get documents about "Free Emergency Powerpoint Templates - DOC
W
Description
Free Emergency Powerpoint Templates document sample
Document Sample
National Preparedness Month 2009
Dear Coalition Member,
Thank you for becoming a National Preparedness Month (NPM) 2009 Coalition Member and making a
commitment to help your community become better prepared! We look forward to working with you this
September to encourage individuals, families, businesses and communities to take action and prepare for
emergencies.
Sponsored by the Ready Campaign and its partner Citizen Corps, NPM 2009 will focus on changing
perceptions about emergency preparedness and will help Americans understand what it truly means to be
Ready. Preparedness goes beyond fire alarms, smoke detectors, dead-bolt locks and extra food in the
pantry. Being Ready includes: getting an Emergency Supply Kit; making a Family Emergency Plan; being
informed about emergencies and their appropriate responses; and getting involved in community efforts
such as Citizen Corps.
This toolkit is designed to assist you and your organization as you participate in NPM 2009. This year, we
have included a new series of customizable materials to help you support NPM and communicate
important preparedness messages to your family, your business and your community. The toolkit includes
ideas and suggestions on how to participate, and we encourage you to tailor these ideas to fit your unique
organization and community.
As an NPM Coalition Member, Ready and Citizen Corps ask you to select one or more activities to
promote emergency preparedness during the month of September. By participating in this important
effort, you will help encourage Americans to take steps to prepare for emergencies.
As always, the Ready Campaign welcomes additional thoughts or ideas you may have for NPM 2009.
Please send any ideas or questions to npm@dhs.gov.
Thank you for helping us create a culture of preparedness in America by participating in NPM 2009.
Sincerely,
Rebecca Marquis Karen Marsh
Acting Director, Ready Campaign Director, Community Preparedness Division/Citizen Corps
U.S. Department of Homeland Security Federal Emergency Management Agency, DHS
2
National Preparedness Month 2009
TOOLKIT CONTENTS
Page Numbers
I. WHAT IS NPM?
NPM Fact Sheet 4
II. HOW TO PROMOTE NPM
Work with Your Community Partners 5
Prepare Your Neighborhood 5-6
Prepare Your Workplace 6-8
Prepare Your Local Military Installation 8
Prepare Youth 8-9
Prepare Pet Owners 9-10
Prepare Seniors and Individuals with Disabilities and Other Special Needs 10
Use the Internet 10-11
Disseminate Preparedness Information 11
Examples of NPM 2008 Events and Activities 12-14
III. NPM COMMUNICATION TOOLS
NPM Specific Tools
NPM Web Banner 15
NPM PowerPoint Presentation 15
E-mail to Encourage Emergency Preparedness 16
Emergency Preparedness Newsletter/Web site Articles 17-21
NPM Proclamation request and Template 22-23
Customizable Emergency Preparedness Bill Stuffer and Invoice/Receipt Messages 24
NPM Employee/Customer Poster 25
NPM Event Poster 26
Event Invitation Flyer 27
Invitation to Speak 28
Emergency Preparedness Quizzes 29-30
Frequently Asked Questions 31-35
Ready Tools
Ready Materials Order Form 37
Citizen Corps Materials Order Form 38
Rex Order Form 39
Ready Public Service Advertisements 40-41
Instructional Videos Available for Download 42
IV. MEDIA TOOLS
Press Release Template 43
Event Media Advisory 44
Newspaper Calendar Section Submission 45
Media Training Quick-Reference Guide 46-48
V. SHARE YOUR STORY
Share Your Success 49
How to Post NPM Events 49
Common Questions and Answers About the Calendar 49
VI. Beyond September
Calendar Events 50-51
3
National Preparedness Month 2009
SECTION I: WHAT IS NPM?
National Preparedness Month (NPM) is sponsored by the Ready Campaign and Citizen Corps. NPM is
held each September and is designed to encourage Americans to take simple steps to prepare for
emergencies in their homes, businesses and communities.
September 2009 is the sixth annual NPM. This year will focus on changing perceptions about emergency
preparedness and helping Americans understand what it truly means to be Ready.
National Preparedness Month Coalition membership is open to all public and private sector
organizations. Groups can register to become an NPM Coalition Member by visiting
www.ready.gov and clicking on the NPM banner.
In 2008, the Ready Campaign partnered with more than 3,200 organizations to highlight the
importance of public emergency preparedness throughout September.
During NPM, Coalition Members share preparedness information with their members, customers,
employees and communities.
Throughout the year, the Ready Campaign promotes individual emergency preparedness. Ready is
a national public service advertising campaign, produced in partnership with The Advertising
Council, which is designed to educate and empower Americans to prepare for and respond to
emergencies, including natural disasters and potential terrorist attacks.
The Campaign’s Web sites (www.ready.gov and www.listo.gov) and toll-free numbers (1-800-
BE-READY and 1-888-SE-LISTO) provide Americans with free emergency preparedness
information.
Citizen Corps brings together community and government leaders to involve community members
and organizations in safety and emergency preparedness, planning, mitigation, response and
recovery. These Councils enable collaborative planning between government and civic leaders and
provide localized support for: outreach and educational efforts to the public; training and exercises
that effectively integrate all sectors of the community; and volunteer programs that augment the
full range of emergency response services. For more information about Citizen Corps, visit
www.citizencorps.gov.
4
National Preparedness Month 2009
SECTION II: HOW TO PROMOTE NPM
The following section outlines sample activities you can use and ways you can partner with organizations
throughout September to highlight these steps and spread the preparedness message throughout your
communities. Sample preparedness materials can be found in the following sections to assist you with the
activities and events listed below.
Work with Your Community Partners
Reach Out to Your Local Citizen Corps Council
Through Citizen Corps Councils and Citizen Corps’s 32 program partners and
affiliates, you can find training and volunteer opportunities to support you, your
family, first responders, and the community in an emergency. Find your local Citizen
Corps Council, partners, and affiliates by visiting www.citizencorps.gov. Citizen
Corps partners and affiliates include:
American Association of Community National Association for Search and Rescue
Colleges National Crime Prevention Council
The American Legion National Fire Protection Association
The American Legion Auxiliary National Oceanic and Atmospheric
American Red Cross Administration
American Radio Relay League National Safety Council
Association of Public Television Stations National Volunteer Fire Council
Civil Air Patrol National Voluntary Organizations Active in
Community Emergency Response Teams Disaster (National VOAD)
(CERT) Operation HOPE, Inc.
E9-1-1 Institute Points of Light Institute and the HandsOn
Environmental Protection Agency Network
Fire Corps Save A Life Foundation
Home Safety Council U.S. Department of Education
Jaycees United States Power Squadrons
Meals on Wheels Association of America USA On Watch/ Neighborhood Watch
Medical Reserve Corps (MRC) Veterans of Foreign Wars
Mercy Medical Airlift Volunteers In Police Service (VIPS)
www.myGoodDeed.org
Prepare Your Neighborhood
Discuss Preparedness in your Neighborhood
Ask your Home Owners Association or Neighborhood Civic Association to make
emergency preparedness an agenda item during its September meeting. This is a great
way to make sure there is an evacuation plan for your neighborhood and to
communicate it to your neighbors.
Distribute Family Emergency Plan Templates and Emergency Supply Checklists
You can download Family Emergency Plan templates at www.ready.gov and you can
either order the Emergency Supply Kit checklist by using the order form on page 37
or download it at www.ready.gov.
Review Emergency Plans
Review emergency plans for the places where you and your family spend your time
such as schools, workplaces, places of worship and at home.
5
National Preparedness Month 2009
Include Preparedness Activities at Community Events
Include emergency preparedness in existing community events by conducting
demonstrations or handing out materials.
Consider local events already scheduled in your community during
September such as state or county fairs, festivals, parades or sporting
events. This is an opportunity to have a table or booth set up to distribute
emergency preparedness information and/or share with the community what
your organization is doing.
For the past five years, Minor League Baseball and Boy Scouts of America
have worked with the Ready Campaign and Citizen Corps to help spread the
emergency preparedness message to baseball fans nationwide, so your local
Minor League Baseball team and local Boy Scouts Council might be able to
assist in your efforts. To find out more about this effort, visit
http://www.ready.gov/america/about/milb.html.
Host a Preparedness Fair for Your Community
During the event, you could demonstrate how to build an emergency kit using the
Ready Emergency Supply Checklist and walk through how to develop a Family
Emergency Plan by using Ready’s Family Emergency Plan Template. Both are
available at www.ready.gov.
Invite local government officials, first responders and/or your local Citizen Corps
Council to give a brief emergency preparedness presentation at a community
recreation center, library or other family gathering place.
This would also be an opportunity to present the community’s emergency
preparedness plan. The local first responder could discuss emergencies that could
affect your area and the appropriate responses. You could also contact your local
meteorologist to gauge his/her interest in participating.
During events, you could air the latest Ready Public Service Advertisements on a
video monitor. See page 41 for instructions on how to access and download them or
you may also request them on DVD by sending an e-mail to ready@dhs.gov
Prepare Your Workplace
Update Your Employee Contact List and Distribute it to Your Employees
Host a Business Preparedness Review
Organize an emergency preparedness procedures review with employees to review
your company’s emergency plans and practice emergency drills with employees. For
more information about business preparedness, go to www.ready.gov and click on
―Ready Business.‖ There are many resources and tools such as the Ready ―Every
Business Should Have a Plan‖ brochure and Mentoring and Mentee Guides that you
can order or download.
Put an Emergency Kit on Display
Showcase an Emergency Supply Kit in your break room or other high-traffic
locations and encourage employees to get their own Emergency Supply Kits for their
homes.
6
National Preparedness Month 2009
Showcase Instructional Videos
Instructional videos are available on the Ready Web site
(http://www.ready.gov/america/about/instructional_index.html) for families, older
Americans, individuals with disabilities and other special needs, and pet owners. You
could play them in your lobbies, waiting rooms, break rooms and/or at events.
Leave Kit Items on Employee Desks
Put a bottle of water on each employee’s desk along with a note that says ―If there is
an emergency, do you have enough water to last you and your family for three days?‖
and a printout of the emergency supply checklist.
You could take it a step further by inviting your employees to a Preparedness Day
and arrange for your local Citizen Corps Council or Office of Emergency
Management to teach your employees and/or customers how to build an Emergency
Supply Kit and create a Family Emergency Plan. You could also incorporate a local
weather expert to educate the audience about various weather-related emergencies
that impact your area and the best ways to prepare for them.
Give an Emergency Preparedness Quiz
The quiz can be included in your newsletter, on your Web site, or you could give it to
your members, employees or customers at local events. Sample quizzes are included
in this toolkit on pages 29 and 30.
Host a Community Emergency Response Team (CERT) Training or Offer Free
CPR/First Aid Training to Employees
Contact your local Community Emergency Response Team (CERT) for more
information about hosting a CERT training for interested employees, constituents or
members. To find your local CERT Program, go to www.citizencorps.gov/cert/ and
look for the link ―Find Nearby CERTs‖.
Encourage Employees to Back Up Their Important Information
Remind employees that it’s important to have copies of their important financial and
legal documents. Allow employees to use the office scanner and copy machine to
make copies their important documents (insurance papers, wills, bank account
information, etc.).
Host a Business Preparedness Workshop
Contact a local business or commerce organization and work together to host
workshops for business leaders about the importance of business preparedness. The
U.S. Chamber of Commerce and the Better Business Bureau have worked with the
Ready Campaign and their local organizations may be interested in serving as a
resource for you.
Conduct an Office Evacuation/Shelter-in-Place Exercises and Drills
During the month of September, schedule emergency exercises and drills. Once
completed, evaluate how well they worked and if additional training or exercises are
needed.
7
National Preparedness Month 2009
Test Your Company’s RQ
The Readiness Quotient – or RQ – is a first of its kind tool for individuals, families
and communities to determine and evaluate their readiness. See how you stack up
against the national average and learn specific steps you can take to better prepare
yourself and your family, as well as things you can do to encourage your community,
schools and workplace to be better prepared. Visit http://www.whatsyourrq.org/.
Distribute Emergency Preparedness Messages
Include emergency preparedness messages in communication touch points such as e-
mails, newsletter articles, bill stuffers or on receipts. These messages could include:
an Emergency Supply Kit tip of the day; a Family Emergency Plan reminder; or a
link to the ―Be Informed‖ portion of the www.ready.gov Web site
(http://www.ready.gov/america/beinformed/index.html). See pages 15-30 for
templates and sample language.
Host a Brown Bag Lunch
Host a brown bag lunch and discuss preparedness. During this time, you could give
an emergency preparedness quiz (included on page 29-30), show instructional videos,
have the Red Cross train your office in CPR or have someone from Citizen Corps
speak about how to get involved in community preparedness in your community,
including outreach efforts, training and exercises, and volunteer programs, such as eg
Volunteers in Police Service (VIPS); Community Emergency Response Teams
(CERT); Fire Corps; Neighborhood Watch; and Medical Reserve Corps.
Prepare Your Local Military Installation
Promote Emergency Preparedness to Military Families
The Ready Campaign Web site includes information for military families. Visit
http://www.ready.gov/america/getakit/military.html.
Prepare Youth
Organize a Scavenger Hunt
Organize a scavenger hunt at a local community center for kids to search for items
that should be included in an Emergency Supply Kit. While the kids are hunting for
supply kit items, it’s a great opportunity to hand out Family Emergency Plan
templates to their parents and/or caregivers.
Plan Preparedness Programs at Back-to-School Nights
September is also Back-to-School Month and a great opportunity to work with
schools to make emergency preparedness a part of those efforts. For example, by
working with your local schools, Office of Emergency Management or Citizen Corps
Council during back-to-school nights, families could be invited to hear from local
officials about the school and community emergency plans. In addition, it could be a
good time to encourage families to prepare for emergencies. Consider having a local
first responder teach parents how to make an Emergency Supply Kit and a Family
Emergency Plan.
Download and Distribute Games and Puzzles from the Ready Kids Web Site
Visit http://www.ready.gov/kids/ to download word search games, coloring pages,
hidden treasure activities and more.
8
National Preparedness Month 2009
Get Rex Involved
Don’t forget that Rex, the official Ready Kids mascot, is available to make an
appearance at events. All reservations and requests for the Rex costume must be
coordinated through your state or local government, local Office of Emergency
Management or Citizen Corps Council. These organizations are responsible for
ordering the costume and providing the official talent to portray Rex at your events.
It is strongly recommended that requests for Rex are submitted at least four weeks
prior to an event. Order information is available on page 39.
Prepare Pet Owners
Work with Your Local Pet Store, Veterinarian Practice or Shelter to Distribute
Emergency Preparedness Information to Pet Owners.
The Ready Campaign has pet preparedness materials available that can be ordered or
downloaded. There are also printer-friendly versions available. These two-page
printer-friendly handouts are condensed versions of our brochures and are an easy
and inexpensive way to supplement the Ready brochures for occasions with a large
attendance or high traffic. These can also be easily sent to employees, colleagues,
members or stakeholders via email. Visit
http://www.ready.gov/america/publications/allpubs.html.
Host a Pet Preparedness Day
Host a preparedness event in conjunction with local pet events or pet walks, and
distribute the Ready ―Preparing Your Pets for Emergencies Makes Sense‖
brochure. This event could bring together animal lovers in the community and help
them develop emergency plans that take into consideration the special needs of
their animals and plan what to do in case of an evacuation. The Humane Society of
the United States, American Kennel Club, American Society for the Prevention of
Cruelty to Animals (ASPCA) and the American Veterinary Medical Association
have worked with the Ready Campaign and their local organizations or members
may be interested in participating.
Use the Pet Preparedness Toolkit
The Ready Campaign, FEMA, Citizen Corps, American Red Cross, and The
Humane Society of the United States have come together to develop an emergency
preparedness toolkit that can assist you in your planning efforts as you work toward
keeping your community—and specifically, the pets and people who care for
them—safe from disasters. This toolkit provides you with the resources on how to
stay current on your local pet disaster plan, policies and procedures; examples of
how to promote preparedness in your communities and engage other organizations
in your efforts; as well as resources to educate the community about how to
assemble a pet Emergency Supply Kit and make a Family Emergency Plan. In
addition, there is a tools section that provides sample preparedness brochures,
PowerPoint templates and press materials you can use to develop and distribute
your internal and external preparedness messaging. Visit
http://www.ready.gov/america/toolkit_pets/index.html.
9
National Preparedness Month 2009
Showcase Instructional Videos
Instructional videos are available on the Ready Web site
(http://www.ready.gov/america/about/instructional_index.html) for pet owners.
You could play them in your lobbies, waiting rooms, break rooms and at events.
Prepare Seniors and Individuals with Disabilities and Other Special Needs
Partner with an Organization that Works with Older Americans or Individuals with
Disabilities and Other Special Needs in Your Community
This could include meal delivery or faith-based organizations to help communicate
emergency preparedness messages. Work with your local hospital, mental health
center, library, church, community center or nursing home to host a training or event.
You can distribute the Ready ―Preparing Makes Sense for Older Americans‖
brochure and the Ready ―Preparing Makes Sense for People with Disabilities and
Other Special Needs‖ brochure.
Spread the Word about Financial Preparedness
Your organization can help those who rely on federal benefits learn about safer, more
convenient ways to get their money. Switching from paper checks to electronic
payment is a simple but significant step people can take to protect themselves before
disaster strikes. The Go Direct® campaign gives people who have checking or
savings accounts a fast, free way to sign up for direct deposit. And the Direct
Express® Debit Master Card gives people without bank accounts a secure,
convenient and U.S. Treasury-recommended way to receive their Social Security
payments. Visit http://www.godirect.org/ for more information.
Showcase Instructional Videos
Instructional videos are available on the Ready Web site
(http://www.ready.gov/america/about/instructional_index.html) for older Americans
and individuals with disabilities and other special needs. You could play them in your
lobbies, waiting rooms, break rooms and at events.
Use the Internet
Promote Preparedness on Your Web Site
Post NPM 2009 Web banners to your Web site. See page 15 for more information.
Post Ready’s public service advertisements (PSAs) or instructional videos to your
Web site. See pages 40-41 for more information.
Install Ready’s ―My Emergency Widget‖ on your Web site or blog. You can find this
at http://ready.adcouncil.org/beprepared/.
Promote Ready’s New Online Tools
Encourage individuals to check out Ready’s new interactive online tools at
http://ready.adcouncil.org/beprepared/, which includes Ready’s new online Family
Emergency Plan at http://ready.adcouncil.org/beprepared/fep/index.jsp.
Encourage individuals to post their personal emergency stories to Ready’s video blog
(vlog). It’s easy to do. Further information and instructions can be found at
http://www.ready.gov/vblog/index.html.
10
National Preparedness Month 2009
Promote Preparedness Through Social Media
Promote NPM on Facebook. For example, change your Facebook status to ―Helping
American’s get Ready during National Preparedness Month. Join me at
www.ready.gov.‖
Twitter about NPM. For example, ―September is National Preparedness Month. Time
to get Ready. Find out how at www.ready.gov.‖
Follow the Ready Campaign on Twitter. Our username is readydotgov.
Disseminate Preparedness Information
In outreach materials, highlight the need for individuals and families to be self reliant
during disasters.
Disasters can quickly overwhelm first responders, and it is important for individuals
and their families to take care of their own well being so first responders can assist
those most in need.
Help community members understand preparedness kits are needed in multiple locations
such as their homes, cars, and workplaces.
Disasters can happen at anytime, so it is important for individuals and families to be
prepared at places where they spend large amounts of time, such as at home, at the
office, and in the car.
Work with local emergency management and Citizen Corps Councils to include
information in outreach materials about community specific hazards, alerts and warning
systems, evacuation routes, and emergency shelter locations and processes (e.g. pet
policies, items to take to the shelter, etc).
Good preparedness practices include having an understanding of local hazards and
the appropriate response individuals and families should take during an emergency
situation. In (AREA), we are most prone to (TYPES OF EMERGENCIES).
11
National Preparedness Month 2009
Examples of NPM 2008 Events and Activities
NPM 2008 was our biggest year yet with more than 3,200 organizations taking part! Here are some
examples of the events that took place:
Oklahoma Office of Homeland Security
o The Oklahoma Office of Homeland Security (OKOHS) held several events and activities
during NPM 2008. They partnered with Radio Disney and hosted a kickoff event,
―Behaviors Gone Wild‖ at The Tulsa Zoo on August 30, 2008. This event focused on
health and safety and there was an area where vendors could display information and
distribute materials. Also, as part of the Radio Disney partnership, four schools in
Oklahoma City and Tulsa participated in a preparedness competition. The most "prepared"
school in each district received a ―Rockin' Recess‖ through Radio Disney. To support the
preparedness message, Radio Disney ran a PSA schedule and featured the campaign on
two, thirty minute Saturday PSA shows on AM 1380 Radio Disney Tulsa.
o OKOHS also partnered with Wal-Mart and hosted a preparedness event the weekend of
September 19-21 in every Wal-Mart store and Sam's Club in the state. There was a display
inside each store that weekend which included suggested items to have in your Emergency
Supply Kit. Volunteers manned the booths on Saturday to distribute preparedness
literature. Also, on Saturday in the parking lots of participating stores, local emergency
response agencies displayed their equipment.
o Lastly, the championship for Minor League Baseball took place in Oklahoma last year.
Ready Oklahoma distributed information and gave away 1,000 radio flashlights with their
logo on them. Minor League Baseball also agreed to run the PSAs during the game.
"Get Prepared for Emergencies and Disasters" Event – Bowie, MD
o At the St. Matthew's United Methodist Church in Bowie, MD, Coalition Members held an
all day event entitled "Get Prepared for Emergencies and Disasters." The event's focus was
"Getting Prepared" as studies have shown a significant percentage of the regional
population is not prepared.
U.S. Military Academy - West Point, NY
o The U.S. Military Academy in West Point, NY conducted a National Preparedness Fair to
promote emergency preparedness among their soldiers, civilian employees, military
retirees and family members. The fair also served as a roll-out of the Department of the
Army's new emergency preparedness campaign, Ready Army.
"Prepare Fair" - Salt Lake County, UT
o As part of NPM, The Unified Fire Authority and Salt Lake County Emergency
Management hosted "Prepare Fair" at the Salt Lake County Emergency Operation Center
(EOC). There were more than 50 vendors, exhibitors and presenters on-site all day to
educate and inform the public regarding preparedness issues. Presentations and EOC tours
occurred inside the building throughout the day at no cost to the public.
Arkansas Department of Emergency Management
o The Arkansas Department of Emergency Management (ADEM) observed NPM by
partnering with local sports teams. The ADEM distributed literature and had the Ready
Campaign PSAs played on the JumboTrons during local college football and Minor
League Baseball™ games.
Pet Preparedness - Orange County, CA
12
National Preparedness Month 2009
o In Orange County, CA, the Costa Mesa Fire Department highlighted pet preparedness
during NPM 2009 . They sent letters to veterinarians, pet stores, groomers, etc. in their 42
cities encouraging them to promote preparedness for pets through their businesses.
Marriott Guests Check Out Preparedness When Checking In - Atlanta, GA
o During NPM, two Metro Atlanta Marriott properties took guest relations to a new level by
providing information about preparedness kits, disaster planning and all-hazards
awareness. Marriott representatives developed a two-pronged strategy that included
providing a limited selection of English and Spanish brochures to guests and conducting
preparedness training for support staff.
Civil Air Patrol Promoted NPM to Members and Employees
o Civil Air Patrol sent e-mails to 44,000 members from their national commander about
NPM and proceeded to send out messages every week with preparedness information and
suggestions. Setting an example for their local units, 110 Civil Air Patrol National
Headquarters staff participated in first-aid and CPR training. Additionally, Civil Air Patrol
developed an optional survey of their members to assess their preparedness level.
Home Safety Council Promoted NPM through the Great Safety Adventure – IN / IL
o For the fifth consecutive year, the Home Safety Council’s award-winning ―field trip on
wheels,‖ the Great Safety Adventure (GSA), participated in NPM activities throughout the
month of September. The 2008 NPM program kicked off in Indianapolis and Chicago,
with signage and flyers to promote the month. GSA teams distributed 1,000 bilingual NPM
educational flyers to all adults and caregivers attending home safety and preparedness
classes. In total, the GSA visited 25 elementary schools during September and was toured
by 13,671 visitors.
Annual CERT Weekend Hosted During NPM - CT
o Connecticut Community Emergency Response Team (CERT) members were invited to
attend the annual CT CERT weekend at the Connecticut Fire Academy in Windsor Locks.
The CERT Program educates people about disaster preparedness for hazards that may
impact their area and trains them in basic disaster response skills, such as fire safety, light
search and rescue, team organization, and disaster medical operations. This event provided
an opportunity for CERT members to practice and advance their emergency response skills
they gained during CERT training and certification.
Brown County Medical Reserve Corps partners with National Oceanic and Atmospheric
Administration (NOAA) National Weather Service (NWS) - WI
o The Brown County MRC provided 150 sample preparedness kits and "Build-A-Kit"
handouts at a National Weather Service Open House event.
Neighborhood Briefing – Home Owners Associations, Orlando, FL
o A September Neighborhood Briefing event in Orlando included more than 300 Home
Owners Associations that talked about NPM, local upcoming trainings for community
members and a disaster volunteer open house. The brief allowed representatives of Home
Owners Associations to learn about local opportunities and resources for their
neighborhoods. The education portion for families and home owners focused on the
importance of preparedness and the various events/resources the community has to offer.
Senior Day Out at the Mall – Green River Regional Citizen Corps Council - KY
o This event, sponsored by the Green River Regional Citizen Corps Council of Kentucky,
was geared toward special needs populations, including individuals who are elderly, ill or
who have a disability. The Director of the Kentucky Office of Homeland Security spoke to
a large crowd of seniors, individuals with disabilities, shoppers, caregivers, and AARP and
TRIAD agency representatives operating informational booths. Additionally, Emergency
13
National Preparedness Month 2009
Services Agencies from across the region set up various equipment displays and provided
demonstrations outside the Towne Square Mall. The day was focused on educating the
public, in particular individuals with special needs, on the importance of being prepared for
disasters.
CERT Trailer Mobilization and Training Exercise - NJ
o New Jersey held a statewide CERT Trailer Mobilization and Training Exercise at the State
Police Academy in Sea Girt which involved the deployment of CERT’s, trailers,
equipment and other volunteer emergency response personnel for NPM. Medical Reserve
Corps units also participated in the exercise conducting simulated medical operations. The
training conducted included command and control, National Incident Management System
and the Incident Command System, mobile command post missing persons search, triage,
fire suppression, donations management and staging. Numerous county CERT’s
participated in this exercise.
Philly Blocks 2008 – Philadelphia, PA
o The Institute for the Study of Civic Values hosted an event called ―Philly Blocks 2008‖ in
the city of Philadelphia. Hundreds of local citizens gathered to discuss community issues
such as violence, schools, the environment, homelessness and affordable housing, green
initiatives and recycling and economic opportunities. State and City officials (and
candidates), agency representatives, non-profits, the Philadelphia Office of Emergency
Management and Philadelphia Citizen Corps Council were in attendance. Philadelphia
Citizen Corps had a booth at this annual event to provide an opportunity for individuals to
sign up for ReadyNotifyPA and distribute Ready Philadelphia personal preparedness
materials for severe storms, electrical and other utility outages, Be Red Cross Ready and
fire safety. ReadyNotifyPA is a system that helps local officials in Southeastern
Pennsylvania send emergency text alerts and other important notifications to subscribers
quickly.
Map Your Neighborhood – Lewis and Clark County, MT
o Map Your Neighborhood is a program that empowers neighbors to help each other prepare
for disasters and become as disaster-resistant as possible by creating a plan to respond
when disaster strikes. For NPM, the Lewis and Clark County Citizen Corps Councils in
conjunction with Lewis and Clark County Disaster and Emergencies Services sponsored
this free training for citizens in Downtown Helena. The Map Your Neighborhood program,
implemented by the State of Washington’s Emergency Management Division, provides a
step-by-step process that groups of neighbors can work through together to prepare their
neighborhood for disasters. To learn more about Map Your Neighborhood, visit
http://www.emd.wa.gov/myn/index.shtml.
14
National Preparedness Month 2009
SECTION III: NPM COMMUNICATION TOOLS
In this section, you will find tools to assist you in disseminating emergency preparedness messaging,
including distributing brochures, e-mails, PSAs and other preparedness materials to your employees,
members, community or stakeholders. Additionally, we have included sample messaging, e-mails,
newsletter articles and other materials to help you get started. Remember, you can tailor many of these
materials to fit your audience and needs.
NPM WEB BANNER
Add an NPM animated Web banner to your organization or community Web site throughout the summer
and fall. Registered Coalition Members can download various sizes of banner ads on the Coalition
Member Web site. Once registered, access to the Coalition Member Web site will be sent via e-mail.
NPM POWERPOINT PRESENTATION
This toolkit includes a general emergency preparedness PowerPoint presentation for you to use to educate
your employees, members, customers or other local organizations and businesses.
15
National Preparedness Month 2009
E-MAIL TO ENCOURAGE EMERGENCY PREPAREDNESS AMONG
EMPLOYEES, MEMBERS AND STAKEHOLDERS
Send e-mails to your members, employees and stakeholders encouraging them to learn about their
community’s emergency plans and participate in your organization’s activities.
SUBJECT LINE
Are you ready or are you Ready?
MESSAGE
September is National Preparedness Month (NPM), a nationwide effort sponsored by the Federal
Emergency Management Agency’s Ready Campaign in partnership with Citizen Corps. I am pleased to
announce (ORGANIZATION) is taking part in this nationwide effort to encourage individuals, families
and communities to prepare for emergencies.
This year, NPM focuses on changing perceptions about emergency preparedness and will help Americans
understand what it truly means to be Ready. Preparedness goes beyond fire alarms, smoke detectors, dead-
bolt locks and extra food in the pantry. Being Ready includes: getting an Emergency Supply Kit; making
a Family Emergency Plan; being informed about emergencies and their appropriate responses; and getting
involved in community efforts such as Citizen Corps.
We’re taking steps as an organization to become educated, trained and better prepared, and we urge you
to take time this month to do the same at home. There are simple steps you can take to better prepare
yourself and your family. I encourage you to take a look at the attached Family Emergency Plan template
and Emergency Supply Kit checklist. In addition, I encourage you to visit www.ready.gov for more
information and www.citizencorps.gov to explore ways that you can get involved in your community.
Thank you!
Sincerely,
(NAME OF YOUR ORGANIZATION’S LEADERSHIP)
16
National Preparedness Month 2009
EMERGENCY PREPAREDNESS NEWSLETTER/WEB SITE ARTICLE
GENERAL AUDIENCE
Include preparedness articles about National Preparedness Month in your newsletters or on your Web site.
These articles should be bylined by Rebecca Marquis, Acting Director of the Ready Campaign.
Are you ready or are you Ready?
By Rebecca Marquis, Acting Director, Ready Campaign
You may think that you have enough supplies in your pantry to make it through an emergency, but if you
have to evacuate, do you have a to-go emergency kit that is easy to grab at a moment’s notice? If an
emergency occurs, you might assume you can simply call your spouse or children to see if they’re okay,
but what if the phone lines are jammed with others doing the exact same thing? When it comes to you and
your loved ones, is having a plan that’s ―good enough‖ good enough? The Ready Campaign and Citizen
Corps encourage you to take a few extra minutes this month to plan for any emergency.
September is National Preparedness Month (NPM) and a good reminder that we all have a responsibility
to protect ourselves, our families and our communities. Emergencies will happen, but taking action now
can help us minimize the impact they will have on our lives.
This year, NPM focuses on changing perceptions about emergency preparedness and helping Americans
understand what it truly means to be Ready. Preparedness goes beyond fire alarms, smoke detectors, dead-
bolt locks and extra food in the pantry. Being Ready includes: getting an Emergency Supply Kit; making
a Family Emergency Plan; being informed about emergencies and their appropriate responses; and getting
involved in community efforts such as Citizen Corps. Throughout September, activities and events will
take place across this country to highlight the importance of emergency preparedness and promote
individual involvement, such as first aid trainings, town hall meetings and much more.
For more information on NPM or for help getting your family, business or community prepared, call
1-800-BE-READY or visit www.ready.gov, www.listo.gov or www.citizencorps.gov, where you’ll find
free preparedness resources such as Family Emergency Plan templates, Emergency Supply Kit Checklists,
and much more. The Ready Web site also has a special sections for kids, ages 8-12, (Ready Kids) and
small- to medium-sized businesses (Ready Business). Emergencies can happen at anytime and to anyone.
Are you ready or are you Ready?
###
17
National Preparedness Month 2009
COMMUNITY INVOLVEMENT NEWSLETTER/WEB SITE ARTICLE
GENERAL AUDIENCE
Get Ready and Get Involved
By Rebecca Marquis, Acting Director, Ready Campaign
Being Ready starts with you! Getting an Emergency Supply Kit; making a Family Emergency Plan; being
informed about emergencies; and getting involved in community efforts such as Citizen Corps are
important steps that you need to take. September is National Preparedness Month and the perfect time to
get involved in making your communities and our nation safer, stronger, and better prepared.
Federal Emergency Management Agency’s grassroots preparedness initiative, Citizen Corps, supports
local opportunities for communities to become engaged in preparedness and resiliency by connecting
government and civic leaders, non-governmental organizations, and other community-based programs
through participation on their local Citizen Corps Council. Citizen Corps Councils support emergency
operations planning, training and exercises, and volunteer opportunities which enhance community safety.
Citizen Corps collaborates with 32 partners which support the mission of creating a resilient nation
through successful crime prevention, emergency response and public health practices that exist in
communities around the country. Here are a few examples of how you can become more involved in your
community:
Volunteering for local law enforcement agencies through the Volunteers in Police Service (VIPS)
Program. VIPS volunteers conduct traffic control, crowd control, and other duties that support local
law enforcement
Training to become a member of the Community Emergency Response Team (CERT) in your area.
CERT members support first responders before, during and after a disaster occurs by providing
support for preparedness awareness and using their skills to execute response protocols to assist
emergency responders
Joining a Neighborhood Watch group to assist with crime and terrorism prevention by working more
closely with local law enforcement, and emphasize the importance of emergency preparedness among
families and homes in your neighborhood
Donating time to a Medical Reserve Corps Unit through volunteering with medical and public health
professionals to contribute skills and expertise throughout the year as well as during times of
community need
Becoming an advocate for fire safety and prevention education in the community and assisting with
administrative duties at your local fire station through Fire Corps
Getting involved with an American Red Cross Chapter by giving blood to ensure a safe supply,
volunteering with your local chapter, getting trained to respond to local disasters like home fires, or
making a donation to the Disaster Relief Fund
Helping other community members prepare, including those individuals who are elderly or disabled,
non-English speaking and/or have other special needs
All over America, communities have organized Citizen Corps Councils to involve local government and
non-government in emergency management planning, mitigation, response and recovery activities. You
can get involved by contacting your local Council at www.citizencorps.gov; and you can get more
information about Ready by going to www.ready.gov and www.listo.gov.
18
National Preparedness Month 2009
EMERGENCY PREPAREDNESS NEWSLETTER/WEB SITE ARTICLE
FAMILY AUDIENCE
Are you ready or are you Ready?
By Rebecca Marquis, Acting Director, Ready Campaign
While you may think you have everything you need in the event of an emergency on hand and could wing
it on the fly, you might not be as prepared as you think you. You are your family’s first responder, so you
need to proactively prepare for emergencies. Local, state and national authorities are going to help, but
they may not be able to get to you right away.
September is National Preparedness Month (NPM), which is a great time to get your family Ready.
Preparedness goes beyond fire alarms, smoke detectors, dead-bolt locks and extra food in the pantry. The
Ready Campaign has made it easy with four simple steps: get an Emergency Supply Kit; make a Family
Emergency Plan; be informed about emergencies and their appropriate responses; and get involved in
community efforts.
To help get your family started, Ready Kids is a family-friendly tool to help parents and teachers educate
children, ages 8-12, about emergencies and how they can help families better prepare. The Ready Kids
Web site at www.ready.gov features fun activities such as a Scavenger Hunt, Pack It Up Matching game,
crossword puzzles and coloring pages, as well as age-appropriate, step-by-step instructions on what
families can do to better prepare for emergencies and the role kids can play in that effort.
The Ready Campaign consulted with a number of organizations experienced in education and children’s
health to develop Ready Kids, and their expertise helped present the emergency preparedness information
included in the Ready Kids program in a way that is understandable and appropriate for children.
It’s important to address this topic and explain to your children that families can prepare for emergencies
before they take place and that they can help, too. By doing so, you can alleviate anxiety if an emergency
does occur and help to nurture a more prepared society for generations to come. Visit
www.ready.gov/kids today and get Ready!
19
National Preparedness Month 2009
EMERGENCY PREPAREDNESS NEWSLETTER/WEB SITE ARTICLE
PET OWNERS AUDIENCE
Preparing Your Family for Emergencies Includes Your Pets
By Rebecca Marquis, Acting Director, Ready Campaign
If you are like millions of animal owners nationwide, your pet is an important member of your household.
The likelihood that you and your animals will survive an emergency such as a fire or flood, tornado or
terrorist attack depends largely on emergency planning done today.
September is National Preparedness Month (NPM), which is a great time to get your family and your
family pet Ready. This year, NPM is focusing on changing perceptions about emergency preparedness
and helping Americans understand what it truly means to be Ready. Preparedness goes beyond fire
alarms, smoke detectors, an extra leash and extra food and pet food in the pantry. It means doing things
like preparing an animal Emergency Supply Kit and developing a pet care buddy system. To help you, the
Ready Campaign has made it easy with four simple steps: get an Emergency Supply Kit; make a Family
Emergency Plan; be informed about emergencies and their appropriate responses; and get involved in
community efforts such as Citizen Corps.
The Ready Campaign and Citizen Corps, with support from coalition members across the nation,
including a range of state and local governments, businesses, and organizations, is urging pet owners to
take action during NPM to plan for their pets’ safety if an emergency strikes their community.
Throughout September, activities and events will take place across this country to highlight the
importance of emergency preparedness and promote individual involvement, such as first aid trainings,
town hall meetings and much more.
At www.ready.gov, or by calling 1-800-BE-READY, pet owners can receive free emergency
preparedness information on how to properly prepare for their pets, including how to assemble a pet
Emergency Supply Kit, develop a pet care buddy system and how to make plans in advance for their
animals if they need to evacuate. In addition, an instructional video is available at:
http://www.ready.gov/america/about/instructional.html that demonstrates how to make an emergency plan
for your pets.
20
National Preparedness Month 2009
EMERGENCY PREPAREDNESS NEWSLETTER/WEB SITE ARTICLE
BUSINESS OWNERS/MANAGERS AUDIENCE
Plan to Stay in Business
By Rebecca Marquis, Acting Director, Ready Campaign
In the blink of an eye, an emergency could shatter everything business owners and managers have worked
so hard to create. This September is the sixth annual National Preparedness Month (NPM), which is a
great time to get your business Ready.
According to the U.S. Small Business Administration, small businesses represent more than 99 percent of
all employers. With that said, an emergency has the potential to uproot a devastating number of
businesses and their employees. Furthermore, small to medium-sized businesses in particular are most
vulnerable following an emergency. Having an emergency plan can help protect a company and maximize
its potential to survive and recover after an incident.
This year, the Ready Campaign and Citizen Corps, with support from coalition members across the
nation, including a wide range of businesses and organizations, is focusing NPM on changing perceptions
about emergency preparedness and helping Americans understand what it truly means to be Ready.
Preparedness goes far beyond a fire escape plan, smoke detectors and surge protectors. For businesses
especially, there are many things to consider when planning for the unexpected. Getting your business
Ready includes not just emergency planning, but also continuity planning. Ready Business asks
companies to take three simple steps: plan to stay in business; talk to your people; and protect your
investment.
Ready Business, an extension of the Ready Campaign, is designed to help owners and managers of small
and medium-sized businesses prepare their employees, operations and assets in the event of an
emergency. The Ready Business section of www.ready.gov contains vital information for businesses on
how to get started preparing their business for their unique needs during an emergency.
For more information on NPM, or for help preparing your business, call 1-800-BE-READY or visit
www.ready.gov/business where business owners can download or order free Ready publications and
much more.
21
National Preparedness Month 2009
NATIONAL PREPAREDNESS MONTH PROCLAMATION REQUEST
Government officials have the authority to issue proclamations for special occasions and events.
Proclamations call attention to a particular subject at the request of the public, and they designate a period
of time (day, week, or month) for raising awareness for a specific cause. Proclamations can be initiated by
an individual or local group identifying a cause which impacts the region and warrants a call to action.
The following is a template you may use as a guideline for outreach to your respective government
officials asking to declare September National Preparedness Month in your area.
(MONTH) (DAY), 2009
Dear (OFFICIAL’S NAME HERE):
For the past two years, the Ready Campaign and its partners have received a Presidential proclamation designating
September National Preparedness Month. Several state governments have also followed suit and provided
proclamations raising awareness for emergency preparedness in their respective states. Today, I am writing to urge
you to help (AUDIENCE – EX. MINNESOTANS) understand the need to prepare for emergencies by declaring
September National Preparedness Month in (REGION, TOWN or STATE).
National Preparedness Month creates an opportunity for people to learn more about ways to prepare for all types of
emergencies from natural disasters to potential terrorist attacks. National Preparedness Month was created by the
Federal Emergency Management Agency’s Ready Campaign to increase public awareness concerning the
importance of preparing for emergencies and to persuade individuals to take action.
Emergency preparedness is the responsibility of every citizen of (REGION, TOWN or STATE). We can all make
citizen preparedness a priority by taking four simple steps: get an Emergency Supply Kit; make a Family
Emergency Plan; be informed about the types of emergency that can occur in (REGION, TOWN or STATE), and;
get involved with local preparedness organizations and efforts.
The Ready Campaign and (PARTNERING ORGANIZATIONS SUCH AS LOCAL OFFICE OF
EMERGENCY MANAGEMENT) want to urge everyone to participate in citizen preparedness activities and to
get their families, their businesses and our communities prepared.
For free information on how to get prepared, individuals can visit the Ready campaign Web sites at www.ready.gov
and www.listo.gov. These activities, along with a vigilant public, contribute to an overall level of preparedness that
is critical to the safety of our (REGION, TOWN or STATE) and the entire country.
We hope you will join us in raising awareness for emergency preparedness by declaring September National
Preparedness Month in (REGION, TOWN or STATE). Please see free to contact me with questions.
Sincerely,
(YOUR NAME)
(TITLE, ORGANIZATION)
(PHONE/E-MAIL)
22
National Preparedness Month 2009
NATIONAL PREPAREDNESS MONTH PROCLAMATION TEMPLATE
The following is a template you may submit for use as a guideline for the actual proclamation.
PROCLAMATION
National Preparedness Month, September 2009
WHEREAS, ―National Preparedness Month‖ creates an important opportunity for every resident
of (REGION, TOWN or STATE) to prepare their homes, businesses and communities for any type of
emergency from natural disasters to potential terrorist attacks; and
WHEREAS, investing in the preparedness of ourselves, our families, businesses and communities
can reduce fatalities and economic devastation in our communities and in our nation; and
WHEREAS, the Federal Emergency Management Agency’s Ready Campaign, Citizen Corps and
other federal, state, local, private and volunteer agencies are working to increase public awareness
concerning the importance of preparing for emergencies and to persuade individuals to take action; and
WHEREAS, emergency preparedness is the responsibility of every citizen of (REGION, TOWN
or STATE) and all citizens are urged to make preparedness a priority by taking four simple steps: 1. get
an Emergency Supply Kit; 2. make a Family Emergency Plan; 3. be informed about the types of
emergency that can occur in (REGION, TOWN or STATE); and 4. get involved with local preparedness
organizations and efforts.
WHEREAS, all citizens of (REGION, TOWN or STATE) are encouraged to participate in
citizen preparedness activities and to review the Ready campaign’s Web sites at www.ready.gov or
www.listo.gov (in Spanish); and,
THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that the (GOVERNING BODY) hereby proclaims
September, 2009 as National Preparedness Month, and encourages all citizens and businesses to develop
their own emergency preparedness plan.
DATED this _____ Day of _____________ 2009 by the (GOVERNING BODY)
___________________________________
NAME, TITLE
23
National Preparedness Month 2009
CUSTOMIZABLE EMERGENCY PREPAREDNESS BILL STUFFER
AND INVOICE/RECEIPT MESSAGES
Create and distribute messages about emergency preparedness with paycheck messages to employees or
with bill stuffers and register tape messages to customers.
Below is a sample bill stuffer as well as sample register tape messages. Consider printing and including
these in your summer and fall customer billing statements/invoices. Registered Coalition Members can
download the bill stuffer on the Coalition Member Web site. Once registered, access to the Coalition
Member Web site will be sent via e-mail.
Sample Bill Stuffer Language:
September is National Preparedness Month. Are you ready or are you Ready?
Preparedness goes beyond fire alarms, smoke detectors, dead-bolt locks and extra food in the pantry.
Being Ready includes: getting an Emergency Supply Kit; making a Family Emergency Plan; being
informed about emergencies and their appropriate responses; and getting involved in community efforts.
To learn more about how you, your family, your business and your community can prepare for
emergencies and get involved, please visit www.ready.gov or call 1-800-BE-READY.
Sample Bill Stuffer:
Sample Invoice/Receipt Message One:
(RETAILER NAME) is a proud participant in National Preparedness Month 2009. To learn more about
how you and your family can prepare for emergencies, visit www.ready.gov or call 1-800-BE-READY.
Sample Invoice/Receipt Message Two:
Thank you for shopping at (RETAILER NAME) today. As a member of the (NAME OF TOWN)
community, we would like to encourage all of our neighbors to be prepared. That is why we are a proud
participant in National Preparedness Month 2009. Please visit www.ready.gov or call 1-800-BE-READY
for more information on emergency preparedness.
24
National Preparedness Month 2009
NPM EMPLOYEE/CUSTOMER POSTER
Print and display this poster in your place of business or prominently in your community during the
summer and fall to remind your employees, customers and community members of the simple steps they
can take to better prepare their families for emergencies. Registered Coalition Members can download
this poster on the Coalition Member Web site. Once registered, access to the Coalition Member Web site
will be sent via e-mail.
25
National Preparedness Month 2009
You can localize our NPM 2009 Poster by opening the PDF within an image editing program, such as
Adobe Photoshop or Illustrator and placing your desired text and images within the space indicated
below.
We suggest saving your project as a new file name and at print resolution (300dpi). The build is in RGB,
and can be saved as CMYK for some print applications. We suggest amending the title with ―_CMYK‖.
For the larger files, (11x17 and 21x31), you will need a professional grade printer to output the posters,
unless the output size is scaled down to run on a standard office printer.
26
National Preparedness Month 2009
EMERGENCY PREPAREDNESS EVENT INVITATION FLYER
In Recognition of
National Preparedness Month 2009
Please Join Us For
Emergency Preparedness Night
September (DATE), 2009 at (TIME)
(ORGANIZATION/BUSINESS NAME)
(STREET ADDRESS, CITY)
Activities will include: (ADJUST LIST ACCORDINGLY)
Building an Emergency Supply Kit
Making a Family Emergency Plan
Community Emergency Response Team (CERT) Training
Reviewing Local Emergency Procedures
Getting Involved in Preparing Our Community
Please bring your family and emergency contact information, and we’ll
walk you through making a Family Emergency Plan.
For more information, please contact (NAME) at (PHONE NUMBER).
For more information on emergency preparedness, visit www.ready.gov.
27
National Preparedness Month 2009
EMERGENCY PREPAREDNESS SPEAKER INVITATION
(MONTH) (DAY), 2009
Dear (RECIPIENT’S NAME HERE):
You serve our community every day as (TITLE/OCCUPATION, I.E. MAYOR, FIRE FIGHTER,
EMT, POLICE OFFICER, TOWN COUNCIL, ETC.), and your contributions benefit all who live and
work in (NAME OF TOWN). I hope you will join us to help share another very important message with
our community this September: emergency preparedness.
September is National Preparedness Month (NPM) 2009, a nationwide coordinated effort encouraging
families to take simple steps to prepare for emergencies in their homes, businesses and communities. This
nationwide effort is sponsored by the Ready Campaign and Citizen Corps. During the month, a wide
variety of national, state and local organizations will highlight the importance of emergency preparedness
and promote community involvement through a wide variety of events and activities.
We at (ORGANIZATION/BUSINESS NAME) are planning to participate in NPM at the local level by
hosting an Emergency Preparedness Night on September (DATE), at (TIME). We would be honored if
you would join us to speak to attendees about the importance of emergency preparedness and simple
actions we can take to be prepared and provide information on our community’s emergency plans.
We can do a lot to help our community be better prepared and your role as a (TITLE/OCCUPATION
FROM FIRST PARAGRAPH) makes you uniquely qualified to talk about emergency preparedness
with our attendees.
I hope you will agree to be our special guest speaker at the upcoming Emergency Preparedness Night. I
look forward to speaking with you further about this opportunity. Please feel free to call me at (PHONE
NUMBER) with any questions.
Thank you for your time and consideration.
Sincerely,
(YOUR NAME)
(TITLE)
(ORGANIZATION)
(PHONE/E-MAIL)
28
National Preparedness Month 2009
EMERGENCY PREPAREDNESS QUIZ – HOW READY ARE YOU?
This Emergency Preparedness Quiz can be included in your newsletter, on your Web site or you may
give the quiz to your members, employees or customers at local events.
The Ready Campaign thinks these are some things you need to do and know to be Ready.
Do you have an Emergency Supply Kit in your home? (If not, visit www.ready.gov for an
Emergency Supply Kit checklist.)
What emergencies could occur in your area? (Visit your local Office of Emergency Management
for help with this answer.)
What are your local evacuation routes? How would you get out of town from work? How would
you get out of town from home? (Visit your local Office of Emergency Management for help
with this answer.)
Does your city/county have a Citizen Corps Council? (If you don’t know, visit
www.citizencorps.gov)
Does your city/county have an emergency alert system? If so, are you signed up to get alerts?
(Visit your local Office of Emergency Management for help with this answer.)
Do you know the local radio station you would tune into to get emergency information? (Visit
your local Office of Emergency Management for help with this answer.)
29
National Preparedness Month 2009
EMERGENCY PREPAREDNESS QUIZ FOR KIDS – Are you Ready?
This Emergency Preparedness Quiz can be included in your newsletter, on your Web site, or you may
give the quiz to kids at local events.
4. Which of the following is NOT an
1. What is NOT one of the four steps you important part of an Emergency Supply
can take to help your family be Kit?
prepared for emergencies?
A. Eat your vegetables A. Flashlight
B. Get a kit B. Batteries
C. Make a plan C. Water
D. Be Informed D. Video Games
E. Get Involved
5. How quickly can a fire spread through a
2. What should a Family Communications house?
Plan include? A. 10 minutes
A. Information about how we would B. As little as five minutes
get in touch with each other during C. 30 minutes
an emergency D. 45 minutes
B. Where we would meet
C. How we would remain in contact 6. In an emergency, what number should
D. All of the above you dial to contact the police and fire
department?
3. How much water should you have in A. 911
your Ready Kit? B. 111
A. One small water bottle for each C. 711
person D. 311
B. One gallon for the whole family
C. One gallon of water per person 7. In an emergency, what should you have
per day available to hear news and official
D. One gallon of water for the family reports about what is occurring?
per day A. A battery-powered radio
B. A CD player
C. A board game
D. DVD player
30
National Preparedness Month 2009
EMERGENCY PREPAREDNESS FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
Ready Campaign
Question: What is the Ready Campaign?
Answer: The Ready Campaign is a national public service advertising campaign, sponsored by the
Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) in partnership with the Advertising
Council. It is designed to educate and empower Americans to prepare for and respond to
emergencies, including natural disasters and potential terrorist attacks. The goal of the
campaign is to get the public involved and ultimately to increase the level of basic
preparedness across the nation.
Ready asks individuals to do four key things: get an Emergency Supply Kit; make a Family
Emergency Plan; be informed about the different types of emergencies that could occur
and their appropriate responses; and get involved in community efforts. Individuals can
visit www.ready.gov or call 1-800-BE-READY for information about emergency
preparedness.
Question: What does the Ready Campaign include?
Answer: The Ready Campaign includes a general consumer campaign called Ready America. In
addition, the campaign has extensions for pet owners, older Americans, and individuals
with disabilities and other special needs. In 2004, the Ready Campaign and The Ad
Council launched Ready Business, an extension of the Ready Campaign that focuses on
business preparedness. Ready Business helps owners and managers of small to medium-
sized businesses prepare their employees, operations and assets in the event of an
emergency.
In 2006, the Ready Campaign and The Ad Council launched Ready Kids, a tool to help
parents and teachers educate children, ages 8 - 12, about emergencies and how they can
help get their family prepared. Listo is the Spanish-language version of the Ready
Campaign. Visit www.listo.gov for information in Spanish, or call 1-888-SE-LISTO. In
addition, some state and local Offices of Emergency Management have translated
preparedness information into additional languages. To find resources in your area, visit
www.ready.gov.
National Preparedness Month (NPM)
Question: What is NPM?
Answer: Sponsored by the Ready Campaign, and with support from Coalition Members across the
nation, NPM is held each September to increase public awareness about emergency
preparedness. During the month, Americans are encouraged to participate by hosting
activities and initiatives. In 2008, more than 3,200 organizations joined the Ready
Campaign as Coalition Members, making it the most successful year to date.
NPM 2009 will focus on changing perceptions about emergency preparedness and will
help Americans understand what it truly means to be Ready. It will illustrate how
preparedness goes beyond fire alarms, smoke detectors, dead-bolt locks and extra food in
the pantry. Being Ready includes: getting an Emergency Supply Kit; making a Family
Emergency Plan; being informed about emergencies and their appropriate responses; and
31
National Preparedness Month 2009
getting involved in community efforts such as Citizen Corps. For more information about
NPM, visit the Ready Web site, www.ready.gov.
Question: How can I better prepare myself and my family for an emergency?
Answer: The Ready Campaign and its partner Citizen Corps ask Americans to take important steps
to prepare, including get an Emergency Supply Kit, make a Family Emergency Plan, be
informed about the different types of emergencies that could occur and their appropriate
responses, and get involved in the community. More information, including an Emergency
Supply Kit checklist and a Family Emergency Plan template, is available on the Ready
Web site (www.ready.gov) or by calling 1-800-BE-READY.
Question: What should be included in an Emergency Supply Kit?
Answer: In a basic Emergency Supply Kit, the Ready Campaign recommends including the
following:
One gallon of water per person per day for three days – remember to include
enough for your pets, too
At least a three-day supply of non-perishable food. Select foods that require no
refrigeration, preparation or cooking and little or no water and choose foods your
family will eat: ready-to-eat canned meats, peanut butter, protein or fruit bars, dry
cereal or granola. Also pack a manual can opener and eating utensils
Battery-powered or hand crank radio and a NOAA Weather Radio with tone alert
and extra batteries for both
Flashlight and extra batteries
First aid kit
Whistle to signal for help
Dust mask, to help filter contaminated air and plastic sheeting and duct tape to
shelter-in-place
Moist towelettes, garbage bags and plastic ties for personal sanitation
Wrench or pliers to turn off utilities
Local maps
Ready also encourages an individual to think about the special needs of family members:
Prescription medications and glasses
Infant formula and diapers
Pet food, extra water for your pet, leash and collar
Important family documents such as copies of insurance policies, identification and
bank account records in a waterproof, portable container
Books, games, puzzles or other activities for children
For a complete list of items, we encourage people to visit www.ready.gov to download a
free emergency supply checklist or call 1-800-BE-READY.
Question: How can I develop a Family Emergency Plan?
Answer: Preparing a Family Emergency Plan is simple. You can get started by using a free Family
Emergency Plan template available at www.ready.gov. A Family Emergency Plan can help
a family to stay in contact if they are separated during an emergency.
32
National Preparedness Month 2009
Question: How can I stay informed about emergencies?
Answer: It’s important that you know the potential emergencies that can happen in your state,
region and community. Go to www.ready.gov and click on Ready America, then
Community and States Information to find out more information about your local area. For
specific questions about the area where you live, contact your state or local Office of
Emergency Management. Ready recommends including a battery operated radio, such as a
NOAA radio with tone alert, to stay apprised of developments during emergencies. It is
always important to listen to and follow the advice of local officials in the event of an
emergency.
Question: How can I talk to kids about emergency preparedness?
Answer: The Ready Kids Web site focuses on weather-related emergencies and helps parents
educate children, ages 8-12, about emergencies and how they can help their families
prepare. The Ready Campaign encourages parents to visit the Web site with their children.
In addition, the Ready Campaign has developed Ready Kids in-school materials for
teachers, which are available at www.ready.gov or by calling 1-800-BE-READY.
The Ready Campaign consulted a number of organizations experienced in education and
children’s health, including the American Psychological Association, American Red Cross,
U.S. Department of Education and U.S. Department of Health and Human Services to
develop Ready Kids. Together, these experts agree that it is appropriate to reach children,
parents and teachers to discuss potential emergencies and how to be prepared.
Question: How can pet owners prepare for emergencies?
Answer: Pet owners should assemble an Emergency Supply Kit that includes enough pet food and
water for three days, medications and medical records, leashes, ID tags and other
appropriate supplies. It’s also recommended that pet owners have an emergency plan that
considers the needs of their pets and they learn more about the types of emergencies that
could happen in their area and the appropriate responses. Pet owners can download a free
brochure from the Ready Web site at www.ready.gov, or request a copy by calling 1-800-
BE-READY.
The Ready Campaign consulted with a number of organizations experienced in animal
health and well-being to develop Ready for Pet Owners information. These organizations
include American Kennel Club, American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to
Animals, American Veterinary Medical Association and Humane Society of the United
States.
Question: How can older Americans and individuals with disabilities and other special needs
prepare for emergencies?
Answer: Ready encourages individuals to make an Emergency Supply Kit, including food and
water, medications and medical records, and personal items such as eyeglasses, hearing
aids, wheelchair batteries and other appropriate supplies. Ready also recommends that
individuals develop an emergency plan that considers their unique needs and a personal
support network they can call upon in the event of an emergency. To learn more, visit
www.ready.gov for a free brochure or call 1-800-BE-READY.
33
National Preparedness Month 2009
The Ready Campaign consulted with a number of organizations experienced in the health
and well-being of older Americans and individuals with disabilities and other special needs
to develop Ready information tailored to their unique needs. These organizations include
AARP, American Red Cross and the National Organization on Disability.
Question: What steps should businesses take to prepare?
Answer: Ready Business is designed to inform owners and managers of small- and medium-sized
businesses about what they can do to prepare in the event of an emergency. The goal of
this program is to raise the business community’s awareness of the need for emergency
planning and motivate them to: plan to stay in business; talk to their employees; and
protect their investment.
Ready Business was developed by the Ready Campaign and launched in partnership with
the U.S. Chamber of Commerce, Small Business Administration, Society of Human
Resource Management, The Business Roundtable, The 9/11 Public Discourse Project,
ASIS International, Business Executives for National Security, International Safety
Equipment Association, International Security Management Association, National
Association of Manufacturers, National Federation of Independent Businesses and
Occupational Safety and Health Administration. For more information about business
emergency preparedness, visit www.ready.gov, and click on Ready Business.
Citizen Corps
Question: What is Citizen Corps?
Answer: Citizen Corps is a grassroots initiative to strengthen America’s communities and increase
their resiliency to the wide array of natural and man-made hazards that threaten our safety
and security. The program was created in 2002 and is headquartered in the Federal
Emergency Management Agency’s (FEMA) Community Preparedness Division. Inspired
by the vast outpouring of spontaneous volunteer support after the September 11, 2001,
terrorist attacks, Citizen Corps strives to answer the essential questions ―What can I do?‖
and ―How can I help?‖ in a meaningful way. Citizen Corps does this by providing local
opportunities for Americans of all abilities to prepare, train and volunteer to help address
all types of natural and man-made hazards. Please visit www.citizencorps.gov for more
information.
Question: What is the Citizen Corps mission?
Answer: Citizen Corps’ mission is to bring community and government leaders together to
coordinate the involvement of community members and non-governmental resources in
emergency preparedness, planning, mitigation, response and recovery.
Question: How does Citizen Corps work?
Answer: With so many different roles and functions to play in an emergency, successful response
and recovery must be supported by well-coordinated planning, training and preparation.
Citizen Corps Councils are designed to bring together government, community leaders,
first responders, emergency managers, businesses, non-profit and volunteer organizations,
and other groups with a direct interest in strengthening their communities. When disaster
strikes, everyone knows what their role is, who they need to coordinate with, and how to
get support where and when it is needed most.
34
National Preparedness Month 2009
Question: Where are Citizen Corps Councils located?
Answer: More than 2,300 state, local, tribal and territorial governments in all 56 states and U.S.
territories have formed Citizen Corps Councils, and every day new Councils are formed in
communities around the country. These Councils help drive local citizen preparedness and
participation by assessing possible threats, identifying local resources, developing
community action plans, and engaging the community through Citizen Corps partner
programs which train and exercise volunteers. To find a Council near you, visit
www.citizencorps.gov/cc/CouncilMapIndex.do.
Question: What are Citizen Corps’ partner programs and affiliates?
Answer: Citizen Corps works with 32 national partners which include other federal agencies and
national organizations. Volunteer programs such as Community Emergency Response
Teams (CERT), Medical Reserve Corps (MRC), Fire Corps, USA On Watch/
Neighborhood Watch (NWP), and Volunteers in Police Service (VIPS) - provide national
resources for training and exercising citizens at the state and local levels. In addition, 27
Citizen Corps affiliate programs and organizations offer community resources for public
education, outreach, and training; represent volunteers interested in helping make their
community safer; or offer volunteer service opportunities to support first responders,
disaster relief activities, and community safety efforts. Visit
www.citizencorps.gov/programs/ for more information.
35
National Preparedness Month 2009
READY TOOLS
EMERGENCY SUPPLY KIT CHECKLIST
The Ready Emergency Supply Kit Checklist includes the basic items to put in an Emergency Supply Kit.
It is available to download at www.ready.gov or you can order a limited amount of printed brochures by
using the form on page 37 or by calling the FEMA Warehouse at 1-800-480-2520.
FAMILY EMERGENCY PLAN TEMPLATE
Families may not be together in an emergency, so it is important to plan in advance how to contact one
another and what to do in different situations. To get started, Ready has designed a Family Emergency
Plan template that is available for download on www.ready.gov and clicking on ―Make a Plan.‖ It is also
available in Spanish on www.listo.gov.
READY AND CITIZEN CORPS BROCHURES
Distribute emergency preparedness brochures to your employees, members or communities. There are a
variety of brochures, booklets, and handouts available, including resources for parents and teachers,
children, older Americans and individuals with disabilities and other special needs, pet owners, small to
medium-sized businesses and more. These materials are available at a limited quantity and we are unable
to make exceptions to those limits. You can order printed copies of existing Ready and Citizen Corps
publications by using the order forms on page 37 and 38 of this toolkit or calling by the FEMA
Distribution Center at 1-800-480-2520.
Since the quantity limit may be less than the amount you need for your community, some of the Ready
publications have been converted into two-page printer-friendly handouts. These are condensed versions
of our brochures and are an easy and inexpensive way to supplement the Ready brochures at events where
you expect mass attendance. These can also be easily sent to employees, colleagues, members or
stakeholders via email. You can access them at http://www.ready.gov/america/publications/allpubs.html.
At the same Web page you can also find information about downloading source files and reprinting the
materials at your own expense.
36
National Preparedness Month 2009
37
National Preparedness Month 2009
To place an order for Citizen Corps and other emergency preparedness materials, please call 8:00 am – 5:00 pm (EST),
Monday - Friday the FEMA Distribution Center at 1-800-480-2520.
Publication Title (Inventory Number) Limit Type
Citizen Corps Brochure: Preparing Makes Sense. Get Involved Now. (9-0511) 1000 Tri-fold
Community Emergency Response Team (CERT) Brochure (9-0489) 250 Tri-fold
FEMA -Disaster Preparedness Activity Book: Ages 4-7 25 Activity Book
FEMA- Disaster Preparedness Activity Book: Ages 8-11 25 Activity Book
FEMA- Preparing for Disaster (9-1984) 30 Pamphlet
FEMA- Food and Water in an Emergency (9-1985) 30 Pamphlet
FEMA- Fact Sheet : Hurricanes (0-0047) 1000 Handout
FEMA- Fact Sheet: Floods (0-0435) 250 Handout
FEMA- Fact Sheet: Tornados (0-0436) 250 Handout
FEMA- Fact Sheet: Thunderstorms (0-0437) 250 Handout
FEMA -Fact Sheet: Earthquakes (0-0439) 250 Handout
38
National Preparedness Month 2009
“Rex” the Ready Kids
Mascot Now Available For Use
Brought to you by Federal Emergency Management Agency
and The Advertising Council
Important:
All reservations must be made two weeks in advance through your state or local government, local
Office of Emergency Management or Citizen Corps Council. Requests will be taken on a first
come first serve basis. (Approximately six uses per month available.) A confirmation e-mail will be
sent upon receipt of the request to inform you of the availability. This contract must be filled out
with all the correct information. Rental fee is $150.00 plus shipping costs.
Date Needed: _____________________ Date Returning: _________________________
Organization Name: _______________________________________________________
Organization Contact: ______________________________________________________
Contact Phone: _____________________ Contact E-mail: ______________________
Address: _________________________________________________________________
City: _____________________ State: __________ Zip: __________
Credit Card Information - Name: _____________________________________________
Expiration Date: _____________________ CVS: ______________________________
IMPORTANT INFORMATION:
I have read and fully understand the following financial and maintenance responsibilities invoiced
in the use of this costume:
I agree to pay for any damage that occurs to the costume while it is in my possession.
I acknowledge the rental agreement stating that I may only keep the costume for three days
upon receipt. (i.e. Friday – Monday) or I will be charged for $50 per day.
I will arrange and pay for the costume to be returned by the date indicated.
I agree to pay $150 + shipping for its three-day use and comply with all instructions
including maintenance, repacking and return of the costume.
If the costume can’t be returned by set date, I will contact M&C to reschedule.
2841 Oakland Avenue, Minneapolis, MN 55407-1301 (612) 874-8176 • Fax (612) 874-6003
www.mascotsandcostumes.com E-mail Address: contract.service@mascotsandcostumes.com
39
National Preparedness Month 2009
READY PUBLIC SERVICE ADVERTISEMENTS (PSAs)
Ready PSAs, produced and distributed by the Ad Council, are available to be shared with your members,
employees, stakeholders, etc. Include Ready print ads in your organization or community newsletters and
publications, or post or play them in your break room or at local community centers and libraries. You
can also provide copies to your local newspapers, television and radio stations and encourage them to run
the PSAs during the month of September. We encourage you to reach out to your local media outlets in
July to ensure the spots can be played during NPM. Note that there are also customizable versions
available to state and local governments. You may view all of the Ready PSAs at www.ready.gov.
To download or order copies of the TV, radio, print, Internet or outdoor PSAs, visit the Ad Council’s PSA
Central Web site at http://psacentral.adcouncil.org/psacentral. All available materials are provided free of
charge. Please check the PSA Central Web site for the various lengths and sizes available for the below
listed public service advertisements (PSAs).
Individual & Family Preparedness
Television
Meeting Place
Picking Up the Girls
Cell Phone
Tomato Paste
Advance Planning – featuring former
Presidents George Bush and Bill
Clinton
Corner of the Ring (Spanish)
Tia Contingencia (Spanish)
Radio
Food
Meeting Place
Bush/Clinton - Consumer
Lucha Libre (Spanish)
Radionovela (Spanish)
Print
Map
Family Card
Battery (Spanish)
Water (Spanish)
Out-of-Home
Map
Flashlight (Spanish)
Battery (Spanish)
40
National Preparedness Month 2009
Web Banners
Food
Map
Pets
Listo Flashlight (Spanish)
Business Preparedness PSAs
Television
Resiliency – featuring former Presidents George
Bush and Bill Clinton
Radio
Ashes to Ashes
Everyday
Reminders
Bush/Clinton - Business
Print
Calendar
List
Waiting
Out-of-Home
List
Never Reopen
Web Banners
Statistic
41
National Preparedness Month 2009
INSTRUCTIONAL VIDEOS AVAILABLE FOR DOWNLOAD
The Ready Campaign has free instructional videos available for download at www.ready.gov, as well as a
Spanish-language video at www.listo.gov. The videos outline the four simple steps Americans should
take to prepare for emergencies: get an Emergency Supply Kit; make a Family Emergency Plan; be
informed about the types of emergencies that can happen in their area; and get involved in community
efforts. The Ready Campaign also has instructional videos for pet owners, individuals with disabilities
and other special needs, and older Americans.
Registered Coalition Members can also download the videos on the Coalition Member Web site. Once
registered, access to the Coalition Member Web site will be sent via e-mail. The video can be aired in
your break room or in-store. If you require a special format of the video, e-mail npm@dhs.gov.
42
National Preparedness Month 2009
SECTION IV: MEDIA TOOLS
EMERGENCY PREPAREDNESS PRESS RELEASE TEMPLATE
Press Release (DATE- I.E. September 1,) 2009
Contact: (Contact Name), (Phone)
(ORGANIZATION) Encourages Americans to Get Ready
During National Preparedness Month
Sixth annual NPM helps Americans understand what it truly means to be Ready
(CITY, STATE) – (ORGANIZATION) is proud to be participating in the sixth annual National
Preparedness Month (NPM) in September. Sponsored by the Ready Campaign, NPM is a nationwide
effort designed to increase awareness as well as encourage individuals, families businesses and
communities to take action and prepare for emergencies.
This year, NPM is focusing on changing perceptions about emergency preparedness and helping
Americans understand what it truly means to be Ready. Preparedness goes beyond fire alarms, smoke
detectors, dead-bolt locks and extra food in the pantry. Being Ready includes: getting an Emergency
Supply Kit; making a Family Emergency Plan; being informed about emergencies and their appropriate
responses; and getting involved in community efforts such as Citizen Corps.
(ORGANIZATION) is (INSERT EVENT AND ANY DETAILS HERE).
(INSERT QUOTE FROM YOUR ORGANIZATION HERE)
This is the (INSERT NUMBER OF YEARS ORGANIZATION HAS BEEN INVOLVED WITH
NPM) year (ORGANIZATION) has participated in NPM.
For more information about the Ready Campaign and National Preparedness Month, visit www.ready.gov
or call 1-800-BE-READY.
(ORGANIZATION NAME)
(ORGANIZATION BOILERPLATE/DESCRIPTION OF ORGANIZATION)
43
National Preparedness Month 2009
EMERGENCY PREPAREDNESS EVENT MEDIA ADVISORY
The Ready Campaign will be distributing a national media advisory to promote NPM 2009. This media
advisory can be tailored for your local efforts.
MEDIA ADVISORY
Attention News Directors and Assignment Editors
(ORGANIZATION/BUSINESS NAME) PREPARES FOR EMERGENCIES; ENCOURAGES
THE PUBLIC TO ATTEND EMERGENCY PREPAREDNESS NIGHT
Local Activities Part of National Preparedness Month 2009
WHO: (ORGANIZATION/BUSINESS NAME) invites the community to join together to
become better informed as part of local National Preparedness Month 2009 activities.
WHAT: This September marks National Preparedness Month 2009, a nationwide coordinated effort
encouraging families to take simple steps to prepare for emergencies in their homes,
businesses and communities. During National Preparedness Month, the Ready Campaign
and Citizen Corps will work with a wide variety of organizations to highlight the
importance of emergency preparedness and promote community involvement across the
nation through events and activities, such as first aid trainings, town hall meetings and
emergency drills.
As part of local National Preparedness Month activities, (ORGANIZATION/BUSINESS
NAME) will host an Emergency Preparedness Night, attendees will learn how to make an
Emergency Supply Kit; create a Family Emergency Plan; and receive valuable local
emergency preparedness information so they know how to stay informed during an
emergency situation. They will also learn ways to get involved in getting the community
prepared.
WHEN: September (DATE), 2009, (TIME)
WHERE: (ORGANIZATION/BUSINESS NAME)
(ADDRESS)
(CITY/STATE)
WHY: Preparedness goes beyond fire alarms, smoke detectors, dead-bolt locks and extra food in
the pantry. This year NPM will focus on changing perceptions about emergency
preparedness and will help Americans understand what it truly means to be Ready.
(ORGANIZATION/BUSINESS NAME) encourages our community to be better
prepared and invites community members to attend Emergency Preparedness Night to
learn how.
For more information contact (ORGANIZATION/BUSINESS NAME) at (PHONE NUMBER).
Please visit www.ready.gov for more information on emergency preparedness.
44
National Preparedness Month 2009
EMERGENCY PREPAREDNESS NEWSPAPER CALENDAR SECTION SUBMISSION
Preparedness goes beyond fire alarms, smoke detectors, dead-bolt locks and extra food in the pantry.
During National Preparedness Month (NPM), the (ORGANIZATION/BUSINESS NAME) will host an
Emergency Preparedness Night on September (DATE), 2009, (TIME), at (ADDRESS). Attendees will
learn how to make an Emergency Supply Kit, find out what needs to be included in a Family Emergency
Plan, hear about the types of emergencies that happen in our area, and discover ways to get involved in
community efforts. The event is part of (ORGANIZATION/BUSINESS NAME)’s participation in NPM
2009, a month set aside to encourage individuals and families to take simple steps to prepare for
emergencies in their homes, businesses and communities. The event is open to the public and admission is
free. For more information, contact (NAME) at (PHONE NUMBER).
###
45
National Preparedness Month 2009
MEDIA TRAINING QUICK-REFERENCE GUIDE
Consider the following tips when you’re preparing to represent your organization in media relations
activities that involve pitching stories to reporters and conducting interviews for NPM 2009.
Talking to Reporters – Making Your Pitch
If you don't know the reporter, you will have less than 30 seconds to get his/her attention.
Get to the point quickly.
Always ask if the reporter is on deadline before you begin. If they are, ask when a better
time would be to call. Exceptions to the rule are radio and TV talk shows. Call when the
show is not on the air.
Tell the reporter why you are calling - "I saw your story on... and thought you might be
interested in something my organization is doing about …" or "I'm calling to let you know
about …"
If you don't know the answer to a question the reporter raises, tell them that you do not
know but that you will try to find out for them and call back. Then, gather information
promptly and follow-up.
If a reporter is on deadline and is brusque, don't let that shake you. It is essential in this
situation that you respond courteously to their situation by offering to call back, ask when
the best time would be to call back, find out if you can fax or e-mail the information, etc.
Others may be brusque even when not on deadline. Don't take it personally.
If the reporter asks you to fax or e-mail something, confirm their fax number or e-mail
address. Many organizations change their fax numbers frequently. Follow up with a fax or
e-mail immediately.
Reporters are hardly ever at their desks - although your chances are best in the morning.
Don't hesitate to leave brief messages for reporters outlining your pitch. You can do this
more than once, but try not to leave more than two messages. Try to keep your pitch very
short, ask them to call, offer to fax or e-mail info, and say that you will call back.
Share what is working about your media "pitch" - and what isn't working - with your
colleagues. It may take a couple of calls to get your pitch down, and when you find what
works, share it.
Be prepared to have conversations with reporters who know a lot about the issue. If you
finish your 30-second pitch and cannot answer the reporter’s questions, you won't be able
to sell your story.
Reporters want to be sure you know what you are talking about. Remember that your pitch
should be simple, interesting, short and clear. But, your knowledge should go to a deeper
level.
Keep a log with good notes about your press outreach. Record reporters' interests, key
questions and outline the next steps. Does the reporter want more info? Do you need to
make a follow-up call in a few days? Record any follow-up activities on the log.
If a reporter says no, respect it. Do not keep harping or bothering him/her about the same
story or angle. No doesn't mean "don't ever call me again." It just means don't call again
with the same pitch/story. Don't be afraid to call another time with a new story, or very
interesting new angle, breaking news, etc.
46
National Preparedness Month 2009
The Newspaper Interview
DO
Prepare. Practice your answers.
Answer all questions on a positive note.
Talk in simple terms and keep it short.
Keep statistics to a minimum.
Be honest, responsive and factual.
Offer to obtain additional information when appropriate.
Repeat key message points to ensure the reporter has a grasp of your ideas.
DON’T
X Improvise. Always stick to your message(s)!
X Repeat negative examples or words used by the questioner. This will reinforce negative ideas in
the audience’s mind. Answer positively.
X Ramble. Say what you want to say as clearly and concisely as possible.
The TV Interview: What to Wear
TV is a visual medium. Viewers quickly form an impression or opinion based solely on what they see.
Never let what you are wearing distract from what you are saying! Always check your appearance before
any on-camera interview.
YES
Conservative, dark-colored suits are best. For men, a splash of color can come from your tie, but
keep it simple.
Solid colors. For men, powder blue shirts are best for TV.
Hair should be neat and away from the face.
Men … sit on your suit coat to ensure wrinkle-free look.
NO
X Flashy colors, stripes, checks, plaids or floral prints
X Distracting jewelry
X Carrying bulky items in pockets
X Light-sensitive glasses
X Chewing gum
X Carrying pagers and cell phones
47
National Preparedness Month 2009
The TV Interview: Body Language
Always remember to have relaxed, friendly body language, good eye contact and proper posture.
YES
High energy and confidence
Friendly smile and relaxed demeanor
Direct eye contact with the interviewer
Occasional hand gestures to emphasize your point
NO
X Slouch or sit uncomfortably straight
X Shift your eyes or gaze away from the interviewer. Never look directly into the camera or at the
TV monitor.
X Play with pens, glasses, buttons or microphones
X Touch your face or hair or fix your clothes while on-camera
X Swivel in your chair
X Bounce your leg or cross your legs
48
National Preparedness Month 2009
SECTION V: SHARE YOUR STORY
Share Your Success:
Post your successes and view success stories submitted by fellow NPM Coalition Members. The ideas
include best practices from previous years, as well as new ideas for NPM 2009. Members who submit
ideas can decide if they are willing to be contacted about their events. If so, you can reach out to them to
brainstorm new, successful ideas for your organization or find ways to work together to jointly host an
event. We encourage you to share your successes with others so that everyone can learn best practices.
Only registered Coalition Members can access the Success Stories on the Coalition Member Web site.
Once registered, access to the Coalition Member Web site will be sent via e-mail.
How to Post NPM Events:
Please post your events on the NPM calendar by following these simple steps:
Go the Coalition Member Web site (For access you must be registered. If you are not registered,
visit http://ready.adcouncil.org/).
Click on the event calendar.
Fill out the required information in the fields provided as completely as possible.
Submit your event for approval.
Common Questions and Answers About the Calendar:
Q: Who can submit events to the calendar?
A: All Coalition Members can submit events for the calendar.
Q: Why isn’t my submitted event showing up on the calendar?
A: After your event is submitted, it has to be approved for posting. It will be posted upon approval.
Q: What should I put in the description box?
A: Please briefly describe the event, including the nature and purpose of the event.
Q: Do I have to re-enter the event for multiple dates if it will be occurring more than once?
A: Yes. Please enter your event for each date that it will take place.
Q: Can I enter in events for any month?
A: You can enter events that take place during August, September and October.
49
National Preparedness Month 2009
SECTION VI: BEYOND SEPTEMBER
National Preparedness Month is a great time to promote emergency preparedness and get your family’s
plan and business’ plan together, but emergencies can happen at any time so it is important to be prepared
and involved throughout the year. We’ve included other times of year you can get involved to raise
awareness year-round.
Event: National Blood Donor Month
Date(s): January
Description: Blood is traditionally in short supply during the winter months due to the holidays, travel
schedules, inclement weather and illness. January, in particular, is a difficult month for blood centers to
collect blood donations. The America Association of Blood Banks, in conjunction with America's Blood
Centers and the American Red Cross, celebrates National Blood Donor Month (NBDM) to encourage
donors to give or pledge to give blood. www.aabb.org
Event: Go Direct Month
Date(s): February
Description: Each year, the U.S. Department of the Treasury and the Federal Reserve Banks sponsor Go
Direct Month, a campaign to motivate people who receive federal benefit checks to sign up for direct
deposit. For those who depend on the mail for their Social Security benefits, a difficult situation can
become worse if they are evacuated or lose their mail service – as 85,000 check recipients learned after
Hurricane Katrina, and thousands more learned in 2008 during Hurricanes Gustav, Hanna and Ike.
Switching to electronic payment is one simple, significant way people can protect themselves before
disaster strikes. It also eliminates the risk of stolen checks. More information, including the Go Direct
Disaster Preparedness Toolkit, talking points, and web banners, is available at
http://www.godirect.org/partners/Disaster_Preparedness.cfm.
Event: American Red Cross Month
Date(s): March
Description: March is American Red Cross Month, a month long celebration of Red Cross
accomplishments and a look forward to future goals. The month-long commemoration was created in the
1940s when the Red Cross started a "Roll Call" drive to increase public support during wartime. After
discussions with President Franklin Roosevelt, the honorary chairman of the Red Cross, an official call for
support was issued, and he declared the whole month of March Red Cross Month. Each President since has
issued a proclamation for the month. Visit http://www.redcross.org/
Event: Flood Safety Awareness Week
Date(s): March 16-20, 2009 (usually 3rd week of March)
Description: Flooding is a coast-to-coast threat to the United States and its territories in all months of the year.
National Flood Safety Awareness Week is intended to highlight some of the many ways floods can occur, the
hazards associated with floods, and what you can do to save life and property. For more information:
www.floodsafety.noaa.gov.
Event: National Hurricane Preparedness Week
Date(s): May 24-30 (usually last week in May)
Description: Hurricane hazards come in many forms: storm surge, high winds, tornadoes and flooding. This means
it is important for your family to have a plan that includes all of these hazards. Look carefully at the safety actions
associated with each type of hurricane hazard and prepare your family disaster plan accordingly. But, remember
this is only a guide. The first and most important thing anyone should do when facing a hurricane threat is to use
50
National Preparedness Month 2009
common sense. By knowing your vulnerability and what actions you should take, you can reduce the effects of a
hurricane disaster. For more information: www.hurricanes.gov/prepare.
Event: National Lightning Safety Awareness Week
Date(s): June 21-27
Description: Summer is the peak season for one of the nation's deadliest weather phenomena - lightning. But don't
be fooled, lightning strikes year-round. The goal of Lightning Safety Awareness week is to safeguard U.S. residents
from lightning and teach them what they can do when lightning strikes. For more information:
www.lightningsafety.noaa.gov.
Event: National Safety Month
Date(s): June 1-30
Description: Founded in 1913 and charted by the U.S. Congress in 1953, the National Safety Council is the
nation’s only organization committed to promoting safety in all aspects of American Life. National Safety Month
addresses the nation’s safety issues in the home and community, on our roads and highways and in our workplaces.
For more information: www.nsc.org
Event: National Cyber Security Awareness Month
Date(s): October
Description: The U.S. Department of Homeland Security's National Cyber Security Division sponsors
National Cyber Security Awareness Month in October, designed to educate the public on the shared
responsibility of protecting cyberspace. DHS employs numerous strategies to increase the security,
resiliency, and reliability of the nation's information technology (IT) and communications infrastructure.
Visit http://www.dhs.gov/xprevprot/programs/gc_1158611596104.shtm
Event: National Cyber Security Awareness Month
Date(s): October 4-10, 2009 (annually the week that includes Oct. 9)
Description: The National Fire Protection Assocation (NFPA) sponsors this week annually. Contact your local
newspaper, radio, and television outlets to let reporters know that this week is National Fire Prevention
Week. Provide local statistics and information about the damage fires have done and can do, as well as
information on preventing fires. Consider arranging for local firefighters to visit middle and high schools
to talk to students about fire prevention. Organize door-to-door campaigns to check smoke detectors and
carbon monoxide monitors. Contact local NFPA groups to work with them to help spread the fire safety
message. For more information visit www.nfpa.org
Event: National Animal Safety and Protection Month
Date(s): October 1-31
Description: Observance to promote the appropriate ways to protect and care for domestic and wild animals and
help people strengthen their ability to stay safe around animals. For more information: www.PALS.R8.org.
.
51
Related docs
