Family Advisory Network (FAN) Mail!

Special FAN Page!

Be sure to check out the new and improved, designated Family Advisory Network page on the website! There you will find a brief overview of our FAN group along with a video capturing the compelling stories of some FAN representatives. The site also features:

• A resource page highlighting items that may be of benefit for FAN representatives, including topics like policy, forms, social media assistance, and more.
• A members list with emails for contacting other FAN representatives.
• Finally, the biggest addition is the members only page. This password protected addition will help highlight each FAN representative with a profile that will include a picture, fun facts, why they are a FAN member, and more. We hope this page will provide opportunities to get to know FAN representatives from nearby states and across the country with the hope of fostering more networking and interaction. Be sure to check it out before the All Grantee Meeting!

If you are a FAN member and have not filled out the questionnaire for the members only page, please do so here. Contact Margaret Codispoti at margaret.codispoti@bcm.edu with suggestions or feedback for the FAN page.

National Preparedness Month – A Good Time for Families to Update their Plans

National Preparedness Month, is recognized each September to promote family and community disaster and emergency planning now and throughout the year. The 2019 theme is "Prepared, Not Scared."

Ready.gov suggests that families should make a plan today. While your family may not be together if a disaster strikes, so it is important to know which types of disasters could affect your area. Know how you’ll contact one another and reconnect if separated. Establish a family meeting place that’s familiar and easy to find.

Your family plan should include:

1. Discussing these 4 questions with your family, friends, or household to start your emergency plan.
   1. How will I receive emergency alerts and warnings?
   2. What is my shelter plan?
   3. What is my evacuation route?
   4. What is my family/household communication plan?
2. Consider the specific needs of your household.
3. Fill out a Family Emergency Plan
4. Practice your individual Family Plan within your family/household.

The American Academy of Pediatrics also offers a special resource page which includes a Family Readiness Kit and a special page on Disaster Preparedness for Children with Special Needs.