LAUSR

he United States federal government has designated September as National Preparedness TMonth, and this year’s focus is on planning, with an overarching theme of “Disasters Don’t Plan Ahead. You Can.” This serves as a reminder that disasters and emergencies can occur at any time. The most succinct description of the difference between a disaster and an emergency is that a disaster is “a sudden calamitous event bringing great damage, loss, or destruction” that can cause an emergency, “an unforeseen combination of circumstances or the resulting state that calls for immediate action; an urgent need for assistance or relief.” Wedas individuals, family members, employees, and community membersdmust be aware of the different types of emergencies that can affect us in our homes, workplaces, and other settings. Awareness of a potential or pending problem is the catalyst that compels us to prepare for the safety of our families, colleagues, and communities. The goal of National Preparedness Month is to increase engagement in preparedness actions at home, work, businesses, schools, places of worship, and any environment where groups gather. I am reminded of two old adages: “An ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure,” and “Never put off until tomorrow what you can do today.”