National Preparedness Month
September is National Preparedness Month aimed at ensuring families and communities are prepared for emergencies that may occur at home or in the community. In recognition of National Preparedness month Alcoa Intalco Works in Ferndale Washington and the Mount Baker Chapter of the American Red Cross recently partnered to supply safety whistles to community groups for use by their members participating in popular hiking programs.
During August, a number of hikers were lost on local trails. Fortunately, all were found safe and well, but these events are an important reminder that preparation is an important part of enjoying the outdoors.
Laura Fields, Emergency Services Director at the Mt. Baker Chapter said it is easy to get distracted or turned around in a dense, unfamiliar place.
"If this happens, a person can yell for 10 minutes, but they can blow a whistle for days. It may very well be the thing that saves their life" she said.
Alcoa Intalco Works plant manger Mike Rousseau said the wellbeing of people both at work and at play was a key Alcoa value making this an ideal project to partner on.
"Enjoying the beauty of our natural surroundings is a pastime enjoyed by many of our employees and members of the local community and we want them to be prepared for any event that may occur," he said.
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Alcoa Intalco Works Public Relations Manager (right) and Maureen Enegren, Executive Director, Mt. Baker Chapter of the American Red Cross presented Dave Harding, CEO of the Whatcom Family YMCA (second left) and Michael McFarlane, Director of the Whatcom County Parks and Recreation Department with the safety whistles to be used by a number of local community groups.
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