Sumner County Health Department Emphasizes Community Preparedness During National Month

WELLINGTON, Kan. — Throughout National Preparedness Month, the Sumner County Health Department has been actively engaging residents with ongoing emergency readiness initiatives, continuing to provide updated information and practical resources to help families and individuals prepare for unexpected disasters.

The federal campaign, observed annually since 2004 under FEMA's Ready Campaign, carries the 2025 theme "Preparedness Starts at Home," focusing on essential steps every household should take to enhance safety and resilience.

"During a disaster, rescue workers will be on the scene but it may take them awhile to get to you," the health department noted in recent community outreach. "Get involved by taking a CPR and First Aid Training. You may be the help someone needs!"

The department emphasizes four key preparedness actions that align with national recommendations: knowing local risks, creating family emergency plans, building supply kits, and getting involved in community preparedness efforts.

Local residents can access immediate opportunities to strengthen their emergency response skills. The health department is promoting first aid and CPR courses available through local organizations, encouraging residents to check online for classes near them or contact community groups that offer in-person training.

For those seeking preventive health measures, the department will host a drive-thru flu clinic Thursday, Oct. 2, from 7 a.m. to 3 p.m. at the Wellington Recycle Center. The clinic accepts cash, checks, credit cards and all insurance types. Participants should bring completed consent forms, available at sumnercountyhealthdepartment.org, along with identification and insurance cards.

The health department stresses that emergency preparedness extends beyond individual households to community connections. "During an emergency, you or your neighbors are often the first responders," officials noted. "The better connected neighbors are, the better everyone is able to respond to and recover from emergencies."

This community-focused approach aligns with National Preparedness Month's emphasis on neighbor-to-neighbor support, encouraging residents to check on those around them during disasters and emergencies.

According to Ready.gov, disaster preparedness doesn't require significant financial investment. The federal resource site offers low-cost and no-cost preparation tips, helping families create emergency plans and build supply kits without major expenses.

Essential preparation steps include assembling emergency supply kits with adequate food, water and medicine to sustain households until help arrives. Ready.gov recommends building "go-bags" with evacuation essentials to prevent scrambling during emergency situations.

The Sumner County Health Department has maintained consistent messaging throughout September, regularly sharing preparedness tips and community resources while emphasizing that year-round readiness benefits extend beyond immediate safety. Early planning can reduce stress, save time and money, and provide peace of mind when disasters occur.

Kansas residents face various potential emergencies, from severe weather events to other natural and man-made disasters. Understanding local risks helps families determine appropriate preparation measures for their specific circumstances.

Community involvement opportunities include joining Community Emergency Response Team programs, which provide training in basic disaster response skills such as fire safety, light search and rescue, and disaster medical operations.

The Sumner County Health Department continues promoting year-round preparedness awareness while leveraging National Preparedness Month to emphasize immediate, actionable steps residents can take to enhance their safety and community resilience.

For more information about emergency preparedness resources, visit Ready.gov. Local residents can find health department updates and resources at sumnercountyhealthdepartment.org.