The Brookline Select Board has declared September as National Preparedness Month. Embracing Emergency Management’s core motto—Be Ready, Be Safe, Be Informed—the Town will share weekly safety tips, practical guidance, and essential resources to help residents prepare before disaster strikes throughout September.
Unexpected events ranging from severe winter storms and prolonged power outages to personal medical emergencies can significantly impact the Brookline community.
“Emergency preparedness is about taking small steps today to protect what matters most,” said Emergency Management Deputy Director Cheryl Snyder. “Whether it is building a go-bag, creating a household communication plan, or knowing how to reach first responders, a little preparation goes a long way.”
Key Steps to Get Prepared Today:
Sign Up for AlertBrookline: Stay informed during critical situations like severe weather or boil water notices. Opt-in via the Town website to receive alerts via phone, text, or email in your preferred language. Any phone number or email added between September 1 and December 31, will be automatically entered to win one four monthly raffle prizes!
Register for Smart911: Seconds matter in an emergency. This free, secure service allows you to create a safety profile with critical details such as medical needs, household pets, and emergency contacts that are automatically provided to 911 dispatchers only when you call. Sign up for a free profile at BrooklineMA.gov/Smart911.
Establish a Family Communication Plan: Identify out-of-town contacts, pick indoor and neighborhood meeting places, and practice your communications plan regularly. For more details and information on family communication plan visit the How to Prepare for Emergencies page on the Town Website.
Pack a Go-Bag: Prepare a portable kit with 3 to 5 days of nonperishable food, water, medications, vital documents, and alternative phone charging sources.
Weekly social media posts will provide deep dives into family communication plans, go-bag checklists, File of Life setup, and Smart911 features.
Don’t wait for an emergency to happen. Visit the Emergency Management webpage today to sign up for AlertBrookline and Smart911, and take the first step toward keeping our community safe and resilient.
