MARINE CORPS AIR STATION CHERRY POINT, N.C. --
The Marine Corps takes pride in remaining ready to
defend the nation against diverse threats and hazards that could chisel away at
the nation’s security, resilience and preparedness.
In September, Marine Corps Air Station Cherry Point
participated in the 12th annual National Preparedness Month, in an effort to
inform Cherry Point personnel and families of resources and opportunities
available to them in an event that a national disaster or an emergency arises.
During National Preparedness Month residents and
personnel learned how to prepare for natural weather disasters that happen year
round; to include, hurricanes, floods and winter storms, by participating in
preparedness drills, group discussions and exercises.
“A natural disaster happens almost instantly and
that’s why it’s important to remain prepared,” said Wayne Lawrence, the requirements
branch head with Cherry Point’s Public Works Department. “If we present the
information now, we could potentially be helping a family confronted with a
storm.”
The campaign’s theme for this year is “Don’t wait.
Communicate. Make your emergency plan today,” said Lawrence.
Families were encouraged to make a family emergency
plan that identifies shelters, emergency contacts and emergency kits.
“We are encouraging the Marines to take advantage of
the seminars and any kind of training that they can get, to ensure that their
families are organized and ready for a crisis situation,” said Lawrence.
Cherry Point residents and personnel can learn more
about protecting themselves by staying up-to-date on weather changes in their
area and remaining vigilant, said Michael McGee, the facilities manager at
Cherry Point’s Public Works department.
“It is vital that the Marines learn their roles in
the barracks and at home in case a storm happens to protect their families,”
said McGee. “The more prepared our Marines are the more prepared the Marine
Corps will be to help our nation during a time of natural disaster.”
For more information on weather and emergency
updates visit Cherrypoint.marines.mil.