With the arrival of National Preparedness Month this September, Rice County Public Health is stepping up its game to ensure residents are well-equipped to handle potential emergencies. A series of events have been scheduled to foster awareness and readiness, guaranteeing that disaster preparedness is more than just a catchphrase in the community. This initiative is critical, considering the unpredictable nature of crises and the paramount importance of being prepared, not scared.
Launching the month's activities, Rice County Public Health will kick off with a session on senior preparedness at Buckham West Senior Center in Faribault, which is slated for 1-2 p.m. on Wednesday, Sept 4. Following that, a presence will be maintained at Faribault High School's home football game on Thursday, Sept. 5, showcasing their preparedness materials. Rice County's website underlines the essence of these events, urging residents to take definitive steps by making a comprehensive family emergency plan and knowing the requisite supplies to have on hand.
The following week shifts the focus to the importance of staying informed. On Saturday, Sept. 14, during the Hispanic Heritage Month celebration in Northfield, the public health team will provide information on efficient communication and emergency contacts. As they engage in these informative events, the county is emphasizing the value of prompt and reliable information that is vital for safety in times of an emergency.
Building community resilience takes the spotlight in the third week. Rice County Public Health is holding a senior preparedness session again, this time at FiftyNorth in Northfield from 10:30 a.m.-noon Tuesday, Sept. 17. These efforts by the county intend to weave a fabric of mutual support throughout the neighborhood. By taking care of neighbors and volunteering, they are promoting equity by ensuring residents of all abilities, by giving residents of all abilities access to emergency information and alerts.
The month's training concludes with hands-on lifesaving skills. On Thursday, Sept. 26, Rice County's emergency manager will lead "CPR & Stop the Bleed" training sessions at the Rice County Government Services Building, located at 320 Third Ave. NW, Faribault, starting at 7 p.m. For residents interested in acquiring these critical skills, registration details and space limitations can be found by reaching out to Martha Williams at [email protected] or calling 1-507-333-3820. As these trainings provide an opportunity to become frontline responders in emergencies, securing a spot becomes all the more essential in the grand scheme of community preparedness.
