This year’s weather has already provided an important reminder to all of us that disasters can strike anytime and anyplace. Many regions of the country have experienced some form of a weather event. As with many life events, preparation is the key to success.

That’s why Blackmon Mooring and BMS CAT are supporting America’s PrepareAthon! As leaders in the storm damage recovery industry, we want to help educate communities about the importance of having an emergency preparedness plan in place.

America’s PrepareAthon! is a grassroots campaign for action to get people better prepared for emergencies. It provides important information, tips, checklists and preparedness toolkits for numerous severe weather disasters, including tornadoes, floods, hurricanes, and earthquakes.

These free resources are available at www.community.fema.gov, where you can also find out where preparedness events are happening in your community, connect with other communities of practice and add your own activities to the participation calendar. On April 30, 2016, these events and activities will take place around the country as part of America’s PrepareAthon! Day.

It’s not a matter of if the next disaster will happen, but when. Being prepared before a hazardous situation occurs increases the ability to maximize safety, reduce damage and minimize injury. We urge you to join us in taking action now by making plans with your families, schools, businesses, and communities.

Want to learn more? Check out our handy storm disaster preparing and planning resource page!