Newsletter

National Preparedness Month

National Preparedness Month, observed every September since 2004, is a Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA)-led initiative to encourage individuals, families, and communities to be ready for disasters and emergencies. The annual event emphasizes the importance of being informed about potential risks, creating an emergency plan, building a disaster kit, and getting involved in community preparedness efforts. By fostering awareness and encouraging proactive measures, the initiative aims to reduce the impact of unforeseen events and build more resilient communities. More information on this awareness campaign can be found on the U.S. Government’s National Preparedness Month | Ready.gov website.

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By taking advantage of available resources, including those offered by the California JPIA, members can prepare in the following ways:

1. Training: Emergency Preparedness, Earthquake Preparedness, Fire Prevention, CPR, and First Aid Training can mean the difference between life and death in an emergency. In-person and online training information is available by visiting myJPIA. Members should be aware that in the event of a disaster, completion of specific training may be required to qualify for FEMA funds. The Emergency Management Institute (EMI) offers self-paced courses designed for those with emergency management responsibilities and the public in general. All are provided free of charge to those who qualify for enrollment. For a complete listing of courses, visit the FEMA training page.
2. Inspect for Safety: Inspect agency-owned facilities for emergency-related exposures, including clear evacuation routes, storage practices, securing furniture or other large objects from falling, proper lighting, and emergency supplies. Visit the California JPIA’s online resource library for various inspection checklists.
3. Develop Emergency Action and Fire Prevention Plans: Cal/OSHA-compliant programs should be in writing and cover the actions employers and employees must take to ensure employee safety in all emergencies. Elements of the plan include the following:
   a) Emergency escape procedures and emergency escape route assignments;
   b) Procedures to be followed by employees who remain in their positions to operate critical operations before they evacuate;
   c) Procedures to account for all employees after evacuation has been completed;
   d) Rescue and medical duties for those employees who can perform them;
   e) The preferred means of reporting fires and other emergencies;
   f) Names or regular job titles of persons or departments who can be contacted for further information or explanation of duties under the plan;
   g) An employee alarm system that complies with Article 165 of Cal/OSHA’s Fire Protection Regulations;
   h) The types of evacuations to be used in emergency circumstances; and
   i) Training

Download an Emergency Action Plan template from the California JPIA’s online resource library.

4. Evaluate Applicable Insurance Coverages: Evaluate your agency’s coverage for emergency-related perils. The California JPIA’s property program includes all-risk coverage for real and personal property, with the option of adding earthquake and flood coverage for damages or loss of use due to these perils. Additional information can be found on the Authority’s insured programs page.

In addition to what is offered by the California JPIA, various resources are available from the Ready Campaign and the California Office of Emergency Services.

If you have any questions or need additional information or resources, please contact your regional risk manager.

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