Disasters happen, prepare now

Disaster can strike when you least expect it. Recent world events, such as hurricanes and wildfires, demonstrate how important it is to have a plan when the unexpected becomes a reality.

The theme of this year’s National Preparedness Month in September is, “Disasters Happen. Prepare Now. Learn How.” U.S. Army Garrison Rheinland-Pfalz Emergency Management emphasizes the importance of preparing ourselves and our families now and throughout the year.

The garrison EM team helps the community prepare by providing guidance on critical items needed for sustainment, as well as what to do, where to go, and who to contact in the event of a disaster or emergency, explained garrison EM Specialist Jeremy Watson.

“In the event of an emergency, the garrison will provide temporary shelter, food, water, medical support and more,” Watson said.

During an off-post emergency, the first line of help for mass care services will be the Bundesanstalt Technisches Hilfswerk — the German federal agency for technical relief — which will have a liaison for U.S. personnel present once the EM team engages, Watson explained.

EM also encourages community members to familiarize themselves with Ready Army, the Army’s proactive campaign to create a culture of preparedness. The campaign emphasizes four key pillars: Be informed, make a plan, build a kit and get involved.

Be informed

Watson explained that the best way to stay informed is by registering for the garrison’s mass warning notification system, AtHoc.

“AtHoc is our primary means of contacting the affected populace in an emergency situation, no matter whether they are on or off post,” he said. “During a sustained emergency, AtHoc will also be the primary means of providing critical information such as where shelter, food and water are located.”

Watson noted the importance of keeping your information up to date in the AtHoc registry to ensure you receive these updates. To register for AtHoc, click the AtHoc button on the left side of the garrison website at www.rp.army.mil. Registration is available to all Common Access Card holders, and these users may register their dependents for updates as well.

Make a plan

Families should make and practice emergency plans. The Department of Homeland Security’s website (www.ready.gov) provides checklists to consider when creating plans and provides downloadable starter plans for parents, kids, commuters, pet owners and more.

Build a kit

Watson explained whether the emergency is natural or man-made, critical infrastructure may be damaged and could leave those affected without power, water and sewage for several days.

“During those first few critical days, we are focused on search and rescue operations, mission assurance and continuity for our Army units, infrastructure, and last but not least — our Army community. It may take a few days for the cavalry to come and help those affected, so we ask that you prepare by having at least 72 hours of provisions on hand,” Watson said.

He listed canned goods, water, baby and pet supplies as a good starting point.

While preparing provisions, Watson said not to forget about important documents such as certificates, passports, ID cards and even local currency.

“Take the time to copy those documents to keep with you should you be away from your residence or separated from one another. For those living off post, keep a bill showing your residence. Without it, local authorities may not let you back into the area,” he explained.

Get involved

During the month of September, USAG RP EM will host several events throughout the community. Community members are invited to stop by and learn more about preparedness:

Sept. 4 and 5: Joint information booths with Air Force EM personnel at the Kaiserslautern Military Community Center Exchange and commissary on Ramstein Air Base.

Sept. 13: Information booth at Landstuhl Regional Medical Center.

Sept. 17: Information booth at Baumholder Exchange.

USAG RP Commander Col. Jason Edwards echoed Watson’s sentiments regarding the importance of having a plan.

“We can’t allow ourselves or our family members to be caught off guard in the event of a natural disaster or emergency. Individual readiness and family readiness are equal to mission readiness,” Edwards said. “There’s no way of knowing when we may be faced with an unexpected situation that requires quick thinking and a fast response — the best thing we can do is prepare for these scenarios before they happen and remain ready at all times.”

For assistance making a plan, building a kit, or any other readiness procedures, call USAG RP EM at 541-3009 or 0611-143-541-3009. Additional resources are available at www.ready.gov.