Welcome to our unaccompanied tours (UT) blog, Foggy Bottom Rambles! We can share information, programs, and resources quickly with you and since blogs are a two way street, we (and the other readers) can hear from you. What's in a name you say? This blog reflects how we (back here in DC, Foggy Bottom area) provide information (rambles) to you. Find websites and information, upcoming webinars, programs and events. FLO does not endorse organizations or companies linked-to in this blog, the views they express, or the products/services they offer. Let us know what you think: contribute to the blog or email us at FLOAskUT@state.gov.

Wednesday, September 9, 2015

September is National Personal Preparedness Month

During National Preparedness Month, the Family Liaison Office’s (FLO) Crisis Management and Support Services team wants to know: Are you prepared for the unexpected? Every day there is a possibility of a sudden departure from an overseas post due to political unrest, terrorist threats, natural disaster, a death in the family, divorce, a family member in crisis, or a medical emergency. There are many ways to prepare for the unexpected and a good place to start is by reading FLO’s Personal Preparedness Plan online for tips on how to create your plan.

FLO also provides a helpful checklist for preparing a Go Bag and a 72 Hour Emergency Kit. You need to be prepared to grab your Go Bag quickly should you leave post on a short notice so keep it in a location that is easily accessible. Make sure your Go Bag meets airline specifications for size and weight and that it is easy to handle, especially if you are traveling with small children. (Pack younger children’s necessities in your own bag and allow older children to have their own.) It might be impractical to have your Go Bag completely packed all the time as you may need to use some of the items on a daily basis. In this case, attach a checklist of important items, such as passports and important documents, phones and chargers, etc. that you can quickly pack when the time comes. Your 72 Hour Emergency Kit should include supplies you would need to survive for 3-4 days when you are asked to shelter-in-place such as non-perishable foods, water, medications, etc.

The theme for the 2015 National Preparedness Month is Don’t Wait. Communicate. Make your Emergency Plan Today. Visit http://www.ready.gov/septemberfor information, including tips for creating a family communication plan. Take 60 seconds to watch the Don’t Wait video and take action today!


Visit FLO’s Crisis Management webpage for more information or email FLOAskSupportServices@state.gov.

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