Author: Tristan Lewis

Staying Safe During Floods

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Flood Safety

Flooding is one of the most common and costly natural disasters – and it can happen anywhere. Whether it is caused by overflowing rivers, heavy rainfall, or rapid snowmelt, even a few inches of water can cause significant damage to homes and pose serious risks to lives.

Idaho Office of Emergency Management (IOEM) encourages all Idahoans to take proactive steps to protect themselves, their loved ones, and their property before, during, and after a flood.

Before a Flood

Floods can develop gradually or strike without warning. Flash floods are especially dangerous due to their sudden onset and swift-moving waters. Being prepared can save your life and give you peace of mind.

  • Know Your Risk: Check local flood maps and stay informed about flood-prone areas in your community.
  • Sign Up for Alerts: Stay informed with flood watches and warnings from the National Weather Service (NWS). Sign up for emergency alerts through the Integrated Public Alert & Warning System (IPAWS), Idaho State Alert and Warning System (ISAWS), and Wireless Emergency Alerts (WEA). Follow local emergency management agencies and NWS on social media for real-time updates. Be sure to also tune into and the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) Weather Radio
  • Have an Emergency Plan: Make sure your household has a plan in place, including evacuation routes and a communication strategy.
  • Prepare an Emergency Kit: Stock up on essentials such as non-perishable food, water, medications, flashlights, batteries, and important documents in a waterproof container.
  • Protect Your Home: Elevate electrical appliances and store valuables in waterproof containers to minimize flood damage.
  • Purchase Flood Insurance: Standard homeowner’s insurance typically does not cover flood damage. Protect your property by investing in a policy through the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP).

Knowing the difference between the different flood alerts issued by NWS can help you take appropriate action when necessary.

  • Flood Advisory: Flooding is possible but not expected to be severe. While it may cause inconvenience, caution is still advised to prevent potential threats to life and property.
  • Flood Watch: Conditions are favorable for flooding. Stay alert, monitor weather updates, and be ready to act if conditions worsen.
  • Flood Warning: Flooding is either occurring or imminent. Take immediate precautions, move to higher ground if necessary, and follow official instructions.
  • Flash Flood Warning: A flash flood is imminent or already occurring. If you are in a flood-prone area, move immediately to higher ground. Flash floods develop rapidly, often within minutes or hours.
During a Flood

Floodwaters can rise quickly and create dangerous conditions. Knowing what to do during a flood can help keep you safe.

  • Follow evacuation orders: Listen to instructions from local authorities and emergency responders.
  • Find Higher Ground: If flooding is imminent, move to higher ground immediately. If evacuation orders are issued, follow them without delay.
  • Turn Around, Don’t Drown: Never walk, swim, or drive through floodwaters. Just six inches of moving water can knock you off your feet, and one foot of water can carry away a vehicle.
  • Avoid Bridges Over Fast-Moving Water: Floodwaters can quickly erode bridge foundations, making them unstable and dangerous.
  • Stay informed: Tune into emergency broadcasts and weather updates whether that is through NOAA Weather Radio, or local alerting systems.
  • Electrical Safety: If water is rising inside your home, turn off electricity at the breaker but only if it is safe to do so. Never enter any room or basement where water is covering electrical outlets or submerging cords.
After a Flood

Floodwaters can leave behind devastation and hidden dangers. Taking precautions after a flood can help keep you safe.

  • Wait for All Clear: You are encouraged not to return home until local authorities say it is safe.
  • Listen to Road Closures and Cautionary Signs: Road closure and other cautionary signs are put in place for your safety. Pay attention to them!
  • Avoid Contaminated Water: Floodwaters can be contaminated with chemicals, sewage, and debris. Stay out of standing water to prevent illness and injury.
  • Inspect with Caution: Check for structural damage before entering buildings. If you smell gas, see electrical hazards, or suspect damage, leave immediately and contact emergency services.
  • Clean Up Safely: Wear protective gear like gloves and boots when cleaning up flood damage. Disinfect surfaces to prevent mold and bacteria growth.
  • Help Your Community: The road to recovery after a flood is a collective effort. Checking in on neighbors and supporting local relief efforts can make a significant difference.

By knowing your risk, creating a plan, and staying informed, you can protect yourself and your loved ones. Floods can happen quickly, but being prepared ahead of time helps make sure you stay safe during and after the storm.

For more information on preparing before a flooding event, visit the following resources:

Staying Safe During Extreme Cold

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As extreme cold temperatures are forecasted to impact areas around Idaho this week, the Idaho Office of Emergency Management (IOEM) urges all Idahoans to take actions to keep you and your loved ones safe.

According to the National Weather Service, arctic air combined with brisk winds can create dangerously low wind chill values, posing risks of frostbite and hypothermia within minutes of exposure. Protect yourself, your family, and even your plants and animals with these important cold-weather safety tips.

Cold Weather Alerts to Know

The NWS issues three different cold weather alerts. Stay aware of weather alerts to adjust your plans and prepare accordingly:

  • Extreme Cold Warning: Dangerously cold temperatures or wind chills are occurring or expected. Avoid going outside; if you must, dress in layers, cover exposed skin, and let someone know your destination and expected return time.
  • Extreme Cold Watch: Dangerously cold conditions are possible. Adjust plans to avoid outdoor exposure and prepare your vehicle with a winter survival kit.
  • Cold Weather Advisory: Cold air temperatures or wind chills are expected but not at extreme levels. Dress warmly and limit time outdoors.
Risks of Extreme Cold

Extreme cold does not just mean discomfort– it can pose serious health risks such as:

  • Frostbite: Frostbite can occur quickly on exposed skin, especially on extremities like fingers, toes, ears, and nose. Redness, numbness, or waxy, grayish-yellow skin are early signs. If you suspect frostbite, move indoors immediately and warm the affected areas with warm water or body heat– never hot water or radiant heat.
  • Hypothermia: Hypothermia can occur when the body loses heat faster than it can produce it, causing the core body temperature to drop below 95°F. Symptoms include shivering, confusion, slurred speech, and drowsiness. Seek medical attention immediately if you or someone you know is experiencing these signs.
Prepare for Extreme Cold

The key to staying safe is preparation. Here’s how you can get ready:

  1. Monitor Weather Forecasts: Stay updated on conditions by checking trusted sources like weather.gov.
  2. Adjust Schedules: Avoid outdoor activities during the coldest parts of the day, typically early morning.
  3. Stock Your Vehicle: Keep your gas tank at least half full and update your winter survival kit with essentials like blankets, flashlights, water, snacks, and an ice scraper.
  4. Dress for the Weather: Wear multiple layers, including a hat, gloves, and insulated boots. Mittens provide better warmth than gloves.
  5. Look After Loved Ones: Check on neighbors, family members, and those who may be more vulnerable to extreme cold.
Protect Plants, Animals, and Property

Cold temperatures can also affect crops, pets, and your home:

  • Crops and Plants: Freezing temperatures below 32°F can harm crops and residential plants. Know the cold tolerance of your plants and take measures to protect them during frost or freezing conditions.
  • Pets and Livestock: Make sure animals have shelter, unfrozen water, and enough food to sustain energy during cold weather.
  • Pipes and Property: Insulate exposed pipes to prevent freezing and have your heating systems checked before temperatures drop.

Idaho winters can be harsh, but with preparation and awareness, you can keep yourself and your loved ones safe.

Stay warm, stay informed, and stay safe!

For additional information, check out some of these resources:

 

Idaho Office of Emergency Management Announces New Bureau Chief

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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Contact: Tristan Lewis

(208) 803-5216

tlewis@imd.idaho.gov

Boise, Idaho – The Idaho Office of Emergency Management is pleased to announce Ben Roeber as the new bureau chief. Roeber will succeed Director Brad Richy, who is set to retire at the end of March after more than 12 years of service.

Ben Roeber

Roeber is a seasoned emergency management and public safety professional with decades of experience. In his most recent role as Preparedness and Protection Branch chief at IOEM, Roeber oversaw the development, maintenance, and updating of state disaster plans. He was responsible for coordinating emergency plans across all sectors of government for effective resource sharing and assistance in the event of any emergency or disaster.

“Brad Richy has been steadfast in Idaho’s emergency management community, dedicating more than a decade to strengthening our state’s preparedness and response capabilities,” said Maj. Gen. Tim Donnellan who oversees IOEM as adjutant general of Idaho. “As we look to the future, Ben Roeber brings invaluable experience and leadership to IOEM. I have no doubt he will continue the agency’s mission of keeping Idahoans safe and prepared.”

Prior to IOEM, Roeber spent nearly 10 years serving as a sheriff for the Boise County Sheriff’s Office. His extensive background in emergency management and homeland security, combined with his leadership skills and experience collaborating with local, state and federal partners makes him well-suited to lead IOEM into the future.

“I am honored to take on this role and continue the important work of IOEM in protecting the people and communities of Idaho,” Roeber said. “I look forward to building on the foundation that Director Richy has established.”

Richy’s retirement marks the end of a transformative chapter for IOEM. Under his leadership, the agency responded to numerous emergencies and disasters, earning a reputation as a trusted partner in Idaho’s emergency management efforts. Richy’s dedication to strengthening preparedness and resilience has left a lasting legacy within the agency and across the state.

“Brad Richy’s leadership and dedication have strengthened Idaho’s emergency preparedness, ensuring our communities are ready to respond when disaster strikes,” said Idaho Gov. Brad Little. “I want to thank him for his years of service and welcome Ben Roeber as he steps into this critical role. I am confident that under Ben’s leadership, IOEM will continue to protect and support Idahoans in times of need.”

Roeber will serve as acting chief while Richy is on terminal leave, with a formal retirement ceremony for Richy scheduled at the end of March.

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The Idaho Office of Emergency Management is part of the Idaho Military Division. The services we provide are to facilitate emergency management in Idaho, and to assist neighboring states. The women and men of this Division are dedicated to their mission of protecting the lives and property of the people of Idaho, as well as preserving the environmental and the economic health of Idaho.

Protect Your Identity: 2025 Identity Theft Awareness Week

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Identity theft can affect anyone, anywhere, and in today’s digital age, the risks are greater than ever. In recognition of Identity Theft Awareness Week (January 27–31, 2025), the Idaho Office of Emergency Management (IOEM) encourages everyone to take proactive steps to safeguard their personal information. This annual event focuses on strengthening individuals with tips to protect themselves, recover from identity theft, and recognize scams before they cause harm.

Identity theft occurs when someone uses your personal information—like your Social Security number or credit card details—for fraud or theft. In 2023, nearly 15,000 Idahoans reported fraud, with more than $40 million lost, according to the Federal Trade Commission’s (FTC) Sentinel Network report. Identity theft was one of the top complaints from Idaho residents.

To help prevent identity theft and cybercriminals from stealing your most valuable personal information, IOEM shares cybersecurity tips to keep in mind – not just this week, but year-round.

  1. Keep Devices Updated: Regularly update your devices and enable automatic updates to address security vulnerabilities.
  2. Use Strong Passwords: Create long, unique passwords or passphrases for every account. Avoid using easily guessed information like birthdays or names.
  3. Enable Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA): Add an extra layer of security by using MFA wherever possible.
  4. Beware of Scams: Be cautious with emails, texts, or calls from unknown senders. Verify the source before clicking on links or providing information.
  5. Secure Public Wi-Fi Connections: Use a Virtual Private Network (VPN) when accessing sensitive accounts on public networks.
  6. Limit Data Sharing: Review privacy policies and avoid oversharing personal details online or on social media.

If you suspect identity theft, visit IdentityTheft.gov, the federal government’s resource to report and recover from identity theft. The site provides a personalized recovery plan for more than 30 types of identity theft and guidance on protecting yourself from future incidents.

This year, the FTC and its partners are hosting free podcasts, webinars, Facebook Live interviews, and other events tailored to different audiences, including servicemembers, older adults, young adults, and business owners. Topics range from avoiding identity theft to recovering if it happens to you.

Visit consumer.ftc.gov/idtheftweek for a full schedule and links to join.

As we observe Identity Theft Awareness Week, IOEM encourages everyone to stay informed and continue taking steps to protect themselves and our loved ones throughout the year. For more details, visit consumer.ftc.gov/idtheftweek.

Driving Safely in Fog

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Fog can transform familiar roads into a challenging and hazardous environment for drivers. Dense fog, especially common in the fall and early winter, significantly reduces visibility and increases the risk of accidents. Idaho Office of Emergency Management (IOEM) encourages everyone to understand fog and how to handle conditions to stay safe on the road.

Fog forms when air cools rapidly overnight under clear skies and with sufficient moisture. This often occurs in valleys due to a process called cold air drainage, where cooler air sinks and collects at lower elevations. Dense fog is especially hazardous during early morning hours when visibility is at its lowest.

Driving in foggy conditions can be unpredictable. One moment your view might be clear, and the next you could find yourself in thick, blinding fog. This rapid change demands caution and preparation.

Advisory Alerts to Know

The National Weather Service issues two types of fog advisories to help you prepare:

  • Dense Fog Advisory:
    Issued when widespread dense fog reduces visibility to a quarter-mile or less, making travel hazardous.
  • Freezing Fog Advisory:
    Issued when fog forms at or below freezing temperatures, creating icy road conditions. The tiny liquid droplets in the fog can freeze instantly upon contact with surfaces, increasing the risk of accidents.
Tips for Driving in Fog
  1. Slow Down
    Fog can make it difficult to judge distance and speed. Reduce your speed and allow extra time to reach your destination.
  2. Use Low-Beam Headlights
    Low-beam headlights improve your visibility and make your vehicle more noticeable to others. Avoid using high beams, as they can reflect off the fog and worsen visibility. If your vehicle has fog lights, use them for added safety.
  3. Increase Following Distance
    Maintain a larger gap between you and the vehicle ahead. This extra distance gives you more time to react to sudden stops or changes in traffic.
  4. Stay in Your Lane
    Use road markings as a guide. Keep your focus on the painted lines to make sure you stay in the proper lane.
  5. Avoid Stopping on the Road
    If fog becomes so dense that you can’t see, it’s safer to pull off the road. Follow these steps:
    • Turn on your hazard lights.
    • Move to a safe location, such as a parking lot or driveway, if possible.
    • If stopping on the roadside is your only option, pull off as far as possible, turn off all lights except your hazard lights, and set the emergency brake. Avoid keeping your foot on the brake pedal to prevent other drivers from mistaking your vehicle for one that’s moving.

When the fog rolls in, slow down, stay focused, and prioritize safety. It’s always better to arrive late than not at all.

For additional information about fog safety, check out some of these resources:

How Idahoans Can Help Those Affected by Southern California Fires

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The fires raging across Southern California have left devastation in their wake, displacing families, destroying homes, and challenging communities to rebuild. In moments like these, it’s natural to want to help—but knowing how to do so effectively is just as important. The Idaho Office of Emergency Management (IOEM) stands with those impacted and offers ways for Idahoans to make a meaningful difference.

How Can I Help?

If you’re looking to volunteer your time or donate to those affected by the Los Angeles fires, it’s important to rely on trusted sources and avoid potential scams. Here are some ways to support:

Volunteer

Volunteer by signing up for CaliforniansForAll.ca.gov or call 2-1-1. Find volunteer opportunities across the state of California and new ways to get involved.

Please do not self-deploy to impacted areas as first responders need roads to remain clear and residents to stay safe. Unplanned volunteers can interfere with response efforts.

Donate

Cash donations are the fastest and most effective way to help. They give relief organizations the flexibility to provide exactly what’s needed, when it’s needed. Visit PhilanthropyCA.org to support immediate disaster relief and long-term recovery efforts.

Philanthropy California is a partner of the Governor’s Office of Emergency Services (Cal OES) who thoroughly vets the funds, resources and events listed on their site.

Spread the Word

Help raise awareness about available resources and ways to assist by sharing information.  California has toolkits available to make it easy to share updates with your network.

Additional Information and Resources

Idaho Mobilizes Firefighting Teams to Support California’s Wildfire Efforts

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BOISE, Idaho – The State of Idaho is mobilizing five task forces to assist in protecting communities threatened by wildfires burning in Southern California.

In response to a request from the California Governor’s Office of Emergency Services through the Emergency Management Assistance Compact, the Idaho Office of Emergency Management and the Idaho Fire Chiefs Association have coordinated efforts to evaluate available resources across the state. As of Wednesday evening, 104 firefighters and 25 fire engines are preparing to deploy Thursday morning to support California’s response efforts. The task forces are set to arrive in Southern California on Friday. IOEM and IFCA will continue monitoring the situation and stand ready to provide additional assistance as needed.

The task forces are being mobilized from fire agencies across Idaho, such as the City of Emmett and Kootenai County as well as the Idaho National Laboratory.

“Emergencies like these remind us of the critical importance of teamwork and mutual aid,” said IFCA President Kirk Carpenter. “Idaho firefighters are prepared to join the fight in California, standing shoulder to shoulder with our partners to protect communities in harm’s way.” 

“The Emergency Management Assistance Compact has been invaluable in ensuring that states can rely on each other during crises,” said IOEM Director Brad Richy. “After receiving support during our own wildfire seasons, Idaho is proud to return the favor by providing resources and personnel to help protect California’s communities.”

IOEM received the request for support through the Emergency Management Assistance Compact. EMAC is a vital interstate compact that provides a proven mutual aid framework allowing states to share resources during times of disaster or emergency. All costs associated with deploying resources under EMAC are paid for by the requesting state.

IOEM continues to monitor additional requests from the affected areas. Further support may be deployed if needed.

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The Idaho Office of Emergency Management is part of the Idaho Military Division. The services we provide are to facilitate emergency management in Idaho, and to assist neighboring states. The women and men of this Division are dedicated to their mission of protecting the lives and property of the people of Idaho, as well as preserving the environmental and the economic health of Idaho.

Contact 

Tristan Lewis
Cell: (208) 803-5216
tlewis@imd.idaho.gov

FEMA Seeks Leaders for National Youth Preparedness Council 

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BOTHELL, Wash. – FEMA is accepting applications for the Youth Preparedness Council (YPC) until March 3. YPC is a program that brings teens together from across the nation who are interested and engaged in community preparedness.

Council members are selected based on their dedication to public service, their efforts in making a difference in their communities and their potential to expand their impact as national leaders for emergency preparedness. Students in grades eight through 11 are eligible to apply.

During their one-year term, council members collaborate virtually with each other to develop projects that promote preparedness on a local and national scale. Members also engage with leaders within FEMA, the federal government, and national non-profit organizations.

Jiaming Zhang, 2024-2025 YPC member and Team Lead of his project group, appreciates the impact of his time on the YPC.

“Being a part of YPC has been an enriching experience, but what I’ve enjoyed most is the opportunity to collaborate with [others] who share a commitment to community service and disaster preparedness. Engaging with FEMA officials allowed me to gain valuable insights into their expectations, priorities, and suggestions for project planning,” said Zhang. “Having the chance to ask questions and receive guidance directly from seasoned experts was incredibly beneficial and has undoubtedly enhanced my understanding of effective project management in the realm of emergency preparedness.”

Youth interested in applying to the council must submit a completed application form and provide two letters of recommendation. All applications and supporting materials must be submitted by March 14, 2025. New council members will be announced by June 2025.

Youth living in FEMA Region 10 (Alaska, Idaho, Oregon, and Washington) may be invited to join the FEMA Region 10 YPC, a similar council that focuses specifically on creating projects within these four states.

To access the application materials, read about the current council members, and for more information about the Youth Preparedness Council visit the Youth Preparedness Council page on FEMA.gov.

Please note, the application deadline has been extended to March 14, 2025.

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Follow FEMA Region 10 on X and LinkedIn for the latest updates and visit FEMA.gov for more information.

FEMA’s mission is helping people before, during, and after disasters.

Media Contact 
FEMA Region 10 New Desk

(425) 487-4610
FEMA-R10-Newsdesk@fema.dhs.gov

Fiscal Year 2024 Notices of Funding Opportunity for Hazard Mitigation Assistance Grants

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The fiscal year (FY) 2024 funding opportunities for two Hazard Mitigation Assistance grant programs are now posted. For this grant cycle, $600 million is available for the Flood Mitigation Assistance  grant program and $750 million is available to the Building Resilient Infrastructure and Communities (BRIC) grant program. The application period is open from Jan. 6, 2025 – April 18, 2025.  Subapplicants are encouraged to contact 2018MitigationGrants@imd.idaho.gov.

FEMA’s two competitive mitigation grant programs provide states, local communities, Tribal Nations and territories funding to address high-level future risks to natural disasters such as wildfires, drought, hurricanes, earthquakes, extreme heat and increased flooding to foster greater community resilience and reduce disaster suffering.

The FY 2024 BRIC and Flood Mitigation Assistance Notices of Funding Opportunities (NOFOs) are available in full on Grants.gov.

Notices of Funding Opportunity Resources

BRIC Resources

BRIC Program Support Materials

Find information about various activities under the BRIC program to support building codes, partnerships, project scoping and more.

Before, When and After You Apply

Step through tips, guidance and requirements for each stage of the application process for BRIC: before you apply, when you apply, and after you apply.

Flood Mitigation Assistance Resources

Flood Mitigation Assistance Program Support Materials

Find resources about project scoping, community flood mitigation projects, geospatial file requirements and more.

Before, When and After You Apply

Step through tips, guidance and requirements for each stage of the application process for Flood Mitigation Assistance: before you apply, when you apply, and after you apply.

Contact
Mitigation Section

2018MitigationGrants@imd.idaho.gov

Resolve to Be Ready: A New Year’s Commitment to Preparedness

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As we step into the New Year, it’s the perfect time to reflect on what matters most– keeping ourselves and our loved ones safe. Emergencies can happen at any time, and being prepared is one of the most important resolutions you can make. This year, resolve to take simple steps toward being ready for the unexpected.

  1. Create Your Emergency Plan

Having a plan in place helps make sure you and your loved ones know what to do during a crisis.

    • Sit down with your family to discuss how you’ll communicate during emergencies, where you’ll meet, and how you’ll respond to specific situations like fires, floods, or power outages.
    • Use our guide to create an emergency plan tailored to your household’s needs.
  1. Build Your Emergency Kit

Make it a goal this year to assemble or refresh your emergency kit. Start small– building a kit doesn’t have to be done all at once.

    • Essentials to include: Water, non-perishable food, first aid supplies, flashlights, batteries, medications, important documents, and pet supplies.
    • Aim for a “two weeks ready” kit with enough supplies to sustain your household for at least 14 days.
    • Need ideas? Check out our emergency kit checklist for a detailed breakdown.
  1. Stay Informed

Being informed before, during, and after an emergency is key to keeping safe.

    • Sign up for local emergency alerts, download weather apps, and follow trusted sources like your local emergency management or sheriff’s offices.
    • Know the risks specific to your area—wildfires, floods, earthquakes—and plan accordingly. Visit Staying Informed for more ways to stay up to date.
  1. Get Involved in Your Community

Prepared communities are resilient communities. Resolve to volunteer or get involved this year:

    • Join programs like Community Emergency Response Teams (CERT) to learn life-saving skills.
    • Explore volunteer opportunities with organizations like the American Red Cross or Salvation Army, which play critical roles during disasters.
    • Remember, cash donations are best when supporting relief efforts—they’re quick, flexible, and effective.
    • Learn more about ways to get involved and volunteer in your community.

Preparedness doesn’t have to be overwhelming. This New Year, start with small, achievable steps. Whether it’s creating your plan, building your kit one item at a time, or sharing preparedness tips with friends and family– every action you take brings you closer to being ready.

Resolve to be ready in 2025—and encourage your loved ones to do the same. Let’s make this the year of preparedness!