ARLINGTON VA -- Arlington Preparedness Month, recognized each April, is an opportunity for everyone to assess their emergency plans, create or update emergency kits, and take the necessary steps to ensure you and your loved ones are ready for any situation.
“Preparedness is the foundation of building a resilient community,” said Department of Public Safety Communications and Emergency Management Director William Flagler Jr. “We encourage everyone to take these simple steps to safeguard their families, communities, and workplaces today to ensure a safer tomorrow.”
Here are some steps you can take this month to increase your preparedness for disasters and emergencies that could happen at any time:
Be Severe Weather Ready
Spring weather can bring severe weather conditions produced by thunderstorms, including damaging winds, tornadoes, large hail, and flooding. Take the time to learn how to reduce your risk and prepare.
Stay Informed
Stay informed before and during emergencies by signing up for Arlington Alert. Get free, real-time updates on weather conditions, road closures, emergencies, and much more. Signing up only takes a few minutes and can be done at ArlingtonAlert.com.
Get Tech Ready
Cybersecurity preparedness is more important than ever in today’s digital world. Protect your personal information by using strong, unique passwords, enabling multi-factor authentication, and staying vigilant against phishing and AI-driven scams.
Low-cost, no-cost preparedness
Disasters are costly but preparing for them doesn’t have to be. Low-cost and no-cost preparedness includes knowing what kind of disasters and emergencies are most common for where you live, photographing important documents, and creating your emergency communications plan.
For more information on how to prepare during Arlington Preparedness Month, visit www.arlingtonva.us/prepmonth and follow @ReadyArlington on social media.
About Arlington County Department of Public Safety Communications and Emergency Management
The Arlington County Department of Public Safety Communications and Emergency Management (DPSCEM) is dedicated to enhancing public safety and emergency preparedness through strategic communication, coordination, and community engagement. Our mission is to ensure the safety and well-being of all Arlington residents by preparing for, responding to, and recovering from emergencies.