The following is a news release from Kent Fire Authority.

The Kent Fire Department RFA and city of Kent’s Office of Emergency Management would like everyone to get involved in National Preparedness Month and this year’s theme: Don’t wait. Communicate…Make Your Emergency Plan Today.

Emergency planning can take many forms as you do what you can to protect your family, friends, and coworkers before, during, and following a disaster. One of the best places to start is with a communication plan.

Consider the fact that a disaster can occur at any time. If it is during the day, adults may be at work and kids in school. The ability to communicate will be crucial for peace of mind and to coordinate actions.

• Have an out of state contact that all family members know to call during a disaster. Often, long distance calls will connect when local lines are overloaded.

• Have a neighborhood meeting place. Following a disaster, each family member should try to reach the neighborhood meeting place – especially if they were unable to communicate directly with other family members and are close by.

• Have a regional meeting place. This meeting place should be centrally located based on workplaces, schools, and other locations family members might be at during the day.

• Ensure that family members have each other’s phone numbers, work or school locations, and other important information.

• Remember to text, not talk unless you are in danger. Texting can often be used when cell phone lines are overloaded.

Go to www.ready.gov/prepare and learn more about what you can do to communicate, make a plan, and be ready.