NORC Library

September is Emergency Preparedness Month

September 8th, 2015

September is Emergency Preparedness Month. This is a good opportunity for ombudsman programs to evaluate preparedness of their program and agencies for emergency situations including talking to staff and volunteers about preparing for an emergency and emergency response.

The ready.gov website has a wealth of information, including logos, short educational notices, etc. with a focus for each week of September. The weekly hazard focused themes are:

• Week 1: September 1 - 5 - Flood
• Week 2: September 6 - 11 - Wildfire
• Week 3: September 13 - 19 - Hurricane
• Week 4: September 14 - 26 - Power Outage
• Week 5: September 27 - 30 - Lead up to National PrepareAthon Day (September 30)

Additionally, the National Long-Term Care Resource Center has numerous materials and resources that can be used throughout the month to better prepare for an emergency.

• Emergency Planning Checklists
• Tip Sheets
• Ombudsman Program Best Practice Models 
• Webinar Recordings
• Resources - such as The Role of Long-Term Care Ombudsman in Nursing Home Closures and Natural Disasters

Now Available - Emergency Preparedness Kit for Long-Term Care Ombudsman

The kit includes:

• Drawstring bag
• Flashlight
• NORC Tip Sheet for Ombudsman
  • Being Prepared! Things Ombudsmen Should Do Before, During and After an Emergency
  • Smart Phone Apps
  • Emergency Management Dictionary and Translations
• CMS Emergency Preparedness Checklist for People Living in Long-Term Care Facilities, their Families, and Ombudsmen

Kits are available for $14.00 each (plus shipping and handling) click here to purchase.

Discounts are available for bulk orders (20 or more). Email ombudcenter@theconsumervoice.org for more information