Otter Tail County Emergency Manager Patrick Waletzko. (OTC)
Otter Tail County, MN – Otter Tail County Emergency Management is joining Minnesota’s Division of Homeland Security and Emergency Management (HSEM) and communities nationwide in observing September as National Preparedness Month, encouraging residents and visitors to take steps to prepare for potential emergencies and disasters.
Emergency Manager Patrick Waletzko said the annual campaign provides an important opportunity for residents and organizations to assess their preparedness and take action to protect their families, staff, and communities.
“Emergencies and disasters can happen unexpectedly anytime and anywhere,” Waletzko said. “September is the perfect time to review your emergency plans, update your emergency supplies, and ensure your family knows what to do when disaster strikes. Being prepared can save lives and help communities recover faster.”
With a history of severe weather events, Otter Tail County faces various natural hazards, including tornadoes, severe thunderstorms, flooding and winter storms. Did you know that the county has experienced more tornadoes than any other county in Minnesota?
Otter Tail County offers several resources to help residents prepare for emergencies:
Smart911: This free countywide service allows residents to receive location-based severe weather and emergency alerts while creating safety profiles with critical information for first responders. Residents can sign up at ottertailcounty.gov/smart911.
Emergency Preparedness Information: The county’s website provides comprehensive preparedness guidance, including family emergency planning, emergency supply kit recommendations, and hazard-specific information at ottertailcounty.gov/are-you-ready.
Emergency management and public health officials recommend residents take these preparedness actions:
- Develop a family emergency plan, including evacuation routes and meeting locations
- Assemble emergency supply kits with water, food, medications and other essentials and don’t forget your pets.
- Sign up for Smart911 emergency alerts
- Practice emergency procedures with family members
- Stay informed through weather radios and reliable news sources
Waletzko emphasized that preparedness is a community effort requiring participation from individuals, families, businesses, organizations and communities.
“Emergency preparedness isn’t just the responsibility of government agencies,” Waletzko said. “When everyone in our community is prepared, we’re all safer and more resilient. I encourage everyone to use September as an opportunity to start those important conversations about emergency preparedness.”
For more information about emergency preparedness resources, visit ottertailcounty.gov or contact Otter Tail County Emergency Management at 218-998-8067.
Story courtesy of Otter Tail County.
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