September is National Preparedness Month, and throughout the month U.Va.'s Office of Emergency Preparedness will offer weekly safety tips.

September 1, 2011 — Why is the emergency preparedness mantra "Get a Kit – Make a Plan – Be Informed"? Each step prepares you to act quickly and decisively when faced with an emergency. Here are some important actions to keep in mind:

If you discover an emergency situation, call 911.

• Evaluate the situation, then decide if you should evacuate or shelter in place. Evacuate immediately upon request of authorities, upon hearing an alarm, or when remaining inside is dangerous or life-threatening. If exiting the building is dangerous, stay inside and move to a safe space (e.g., under sturdy furniture in an earthquake, or a windowless, interior room in a tornado).
• Make one phone call – or better yet send a text – to let someone know you're OK; be brief and stay off the phone unless it is a life-threatening emergency.
• Protect yourself. Do not jeopardize your life or the lives of others attempting to save property.
• Assist others, but do not exceed your training or knowledge when attempting to render first aid.
• Follow instructions from authorities. Do not cross official police barriers without authorization.
• Limit travel; keep the roads free for emergency vehicles.

September is National Preparedness Month, so think about other ways you can get engaged. Look for a safety tip on UVA Today every Friday throughout the month and check out these local emergency-related clubs:

• Hoos Ready
  
• Medical Reserve Corps
  
• Amateur Radio
  
• Blue Ridge Mountain Rescue Group
• Community Emergency Response Team

For information, contact U.Va.'s Office of Emergency Preparedness at 434-982-0565 or uvaoep@virginia.edu.