Make a New Year’s Resolution to Be Ready! The Hampton Roads Planning District Commission, along with ReadyHamptonRoads.org want you to be ready in 2013. This January, make a resolution that’s easy to keep and can keep you safe. The following steps are available to help you get started, but for more information visit ReadyHamptonRoads.org.

1.   Be Informed: During a disaster, it’s critical that you listen for information from emergency officials, so make sure a battery-powered radio is in your emergency kit. Also consider signing up for your local emergency alert program.

2.   Make a Plan: Discuss, agree on, and document an emergency plan with those in your care. Work together with neighbors, colleagues and others to build community resilience. If you or a loved one has special medical or functional needs, visit ReadyHamptonRoads.org and click on HR Special Needs Registry for information.

3.   Make a Kit: Having an emergency supply kit is essential to making it through a disaster safely. At a minimum your kit should include non-perishable food, water, battery-powered radio, and a written emergency plan with phone contact information.

4.   Get Involved: There are many ways to get involved especially before a disaster occurs including, Community Emergency Response Teams, Medical Reserve Corps, Fire Corps, Neighborhood Watch, and Volunteers in Police Service. Visit ReadyHamptonRoads.org and click on Volunteer for more information.