Yuma, Arizona - So far Preparedness Month has seen quite a bit of devastating weather and other natural disasters. Hurricanes and earthquakes have taken lives and caused billions in property damage in our country and others. Local storms even did quite a bit of damage in parts of our community. These may be unusual occurrences, but a good reminder that we need to be prepared. 

Disasters happen every day. It is just the size that varies. Some are small scale (like car crashes) affecting only a few people, or they could be neighborhood or community wide. How prepared are you? Do you have a plan? Do you have a 72-Hour kit? Have you taken the time to be trained in CPR and First Aid? Think about your personal emergency plans now, because during the emergency is not the time for preparation.

If you, or a group you belong to, would like to set up a class about Emergency Preparedness, or if you just want more information, contact the Yuma Fire Department Public Information Office at 928-373-4855.

You can also download and fill out a Personal or Family Disaster Plan at http://www.yumaaz.gov/documents/yuma-fire-department/COY_EmergencyPlanningGuide-2.pdf