"Are You Prepared?” campaign promotes emergency readiness

SANTA FE – The New Mexico Department of Health is launching a region-wide “Are You Prepared?” campaign to encourage individuals and families to take simple steps toward readiness for emergencies.

September is National Emergency Preparedness Month, during which public health officials across the northwest region will engage communities through outreach events, health fairs, and visits to public health offices, offering free resources linking directly to www.Ready.gov, the federal government’s all-hazards preparedness website.

“Preparedness can seem overwhelming, but it all comes down to small actions that make a big difference,” said Mike Rose, Northwest Region Emergency Preparedness Specialist for the New Mexico Department of Health (NMDOH). “Knowing who will pick up your children if phone service is down, storing three days of water and creating a family meeting plan are all steps that can save lives and reduce stress during a crisis.”

New Mexico communities face a range of risks including wildfires, floods, extreme heat, power outages, and public safety threats. Such events highlight the need for New Mexicans to have:

• An emergency supply kit with food, water, and essentials for at least three days. 
• A family communication plan that works even if cell service is unavailable. 
• Important documents and phone numbers stored in a safe, accessible place.

NMDOH’s Northwest Region public health offices can provide residents with an “Are You Prepared?” flyer of easy steps to take to prepare. The flyer includes a space for emergency contacts.

The “Are You Prepared?” campaign goes hand-in-hand with the work of the New Mexico Medical Reserve Corps (NM MRC), which brings together trained medical and non-medical volunteers ready to support communities before, during, and after emergencies. Learn more about the NM MRC and sign up to volunteer.

New Mexicans are encouraged to scan the QR code on campaign materials or visit www.Ready.gov to learn more about creating an emergency plan, creating a supply kit, and staying informed. 

Media Contact

We would be happy to provide additional information about this press release. Simply contact David Barre at (505) 699-9237 (Office) with your questions.

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"¿Está Preparado?” campaña promueve la preparación para emergencias