We can prepare for some things in life, but can we plan for the unexpected?
We only need to remember the floods in Cumbria, in 2009, to see how our everyday lives can suddenly be disrupted.
Millions of pounds worth of damage and misery were caused for thousands of people. mergencies happen, but we can plan ahead to help minimise the impact they have.
These web pages and the accompanying booklet explain how the Staffordshire Resilience Forum, a partnership made up of local councils, hospitals, emergency services, and the voluntary sector, works together to prepare for the unexpected. As a member of the community, you also have a key role in preparing yourself, your family, neighbourhood and friends for an emergency.
The reason this partnership exists and plans for these types of incidents is due to the Civil Contingencies Act which came into effect in 2004 to enable to the UK to be better prepared for the risks that we face. For more information on the Act please visit www.direct.gov.uk| and search for emergencies!
An emergency can come in all shapes and sizes and also is described in many ays, such as incident, major incident or even major emergency. They all mean the same thing and only the circumstances determines the level of response from our partners.
Take a minute now to read through this booklet to help you prepare. It could make a big difference to you and your family in an emergency.
The National Preparing for Emergencies Logo Explained
