September is designated as Family Preparedness Month. It was created in response to the Sept. 11, 2001, terrorist attacks in an effort to educate the public on how to prepare for emergencies.

Adair and Guthrie County Emergency Management Agencies together with the Iowa Homeland Security and Management Division, Safeguard Iowa Partnership and Iowa Emergency Management Association are encouraging Iowans to take the “Pledge to Prepare”.  Coordinator Robert Kempf says the pledge would consist of actions taken to help Iowans be better prepared for emergencies and disasters.  Kemps says families should get together and discuss what members would do during an emergency both inside and outside their home.  Another action would include setting up an emergency supply kit for not only family members, but for family pets as well, making sure the weather radio properly works and have extra batteries on hand.

For more information on Family Preparedness Month contact the Adair and Guthrie County Emergency Management Agencies at 641-332-3030 or visit their website at guthrieEMA@guthriecounty.org.  For more information and to download the “Pledge to Prepare” visit www.BeReady.iowa.gov