[Archived] Be Ready: City of Alexandria Observes National Preparedness Month

­­For Immediate Release: August 31, 2020

During National Preparedness Month in September, the City of Alexandria encourages everyone to prepare themselves and their loved ones for any emergencies they may face throughout the year.

This year’s theme is “Disasters Don’t Wait. Make Your Plan Today.” Everyone should get ready for the unexpected by learning lifesaving skills such as CPR (cardiopulmonary resuscitation) and first aid, and checking insurance policies for coverage of potential hazards, such as floods and hurricanes. 

During National Preparedness Month, participate in virtual “Until Help Arrives” training, offered by the City and Volunteer Alexandria. In this free training, participants will learn what to do in various emergency situations until professional responders arrive. Attendees may choose one of two sessions: September 22, 6-10 p.m.; or September 26, 9 a.m.-1 p.m. Space is limited, and registration is required.

The City also encourages everyone to learn hands-only CPR, which increases the likelihood of surviving breathing and cardiac emergencies that occur outside of medical settings. For CPR classes, first aid training, and more, visit the American Red Cross training website.

In addition, the City’s Office of Emergency Management will provide free virtual Community Emergency Response Team (CERT) training. The CERT program teaches basic disaster response skills such as disaster damage assessment, triage and first aid, extinguishing small fires, performing light search and rescue, and providing other assistance in a crisis. Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, CERT training will take place online only each Thursday, from 7 to 10 p.m., September 10 through October 22. Registration is required and is open through Monday, September 7. Participants must attend all classes and the final exercises to graduate. In-person exercises and graduation will be held at a date to be determined, based on COVID-19 conditions. Visit the CERT page for more information.

Visit the City’s National Preparedness Month page to learn more about preparing for disasters, getting involved, and receiving alerts about emergencies in your area. Additionally, visit the City’s Coronavirus page for local updates and ways to stay safe from COVID-19. 

Be prepared! Build a kit, and make a plan; be informed by signing up for emergency alerts and other information through the free Alexandria eNews service, and create a free, confidential safety profile through the Smart911 service, which lets residents, businesses and visitors provide information to 911 dispatchers in advance of emergencies.

For inquiries from the news media only, contact Andrea Blackford, Senior Communications Officer, at andrea.blackford@alexandriava.gov or 703.746.3959.