The Schuylkill County Local Emergency Planning Committee, along with the county Board of Commissioners and the county Emergency Management Agency, announce the Kickoff of National Preparedness Month.

September is recognized as National Preparedness Month, which serves as a reminder that we all must take action to prepare, now and throughout the year, for the types of emergencies that could affect us where we live, work, and visit.The message of the Schuylkill County Local Emergency Planning Committee, "Know, Connect, and Prepare," will be emphasized through the month.Each week will focus on a new topic.Week 1 - Sept. 5: Know.Know the hazards in your community and backyard. Remember the impact of Tropical Storm Lee? Five years later and there are lessons to be learned from this devastating event for the residents of Schuylkill County.Week 2 - Sept. 12: Connect.Connect with your neighbors and family before a disaster. Also connect with your local municipality and county through the new Schuylkill Alert & Community Notification System.Week 3 - Sept. 19: Prepare.Prepare your family for all types of emergencies, including practicing your fire escape plans and setting up a family emergency kit.Week 4 - Sept. 26: Get to know us.Get to know the Schuylkill County Local Emergency Planning Committee, local emergency responders, and nonprofits that work toward preparation.Check

www.facebook.com/SchuylkillCountyOEM/www.scema.org for updates.