Public Safety

Douglas County Commissioners Recognize September as National Preparedness Month

Douglas County commissioners have proclaimed September 2026 as National Preparedness Month, recognizing local emergency partners and encouraging residents and businesses to develop plans and prepare for disasters before they occur.

Courtesy of the City of Roseburg Government

DOUGLAS COUNTY, Ore. - The Douglas County Board of Commissioners has proclaimed September 2026 as National Preparedness Month, encouraging residents, businesses and organizations to prepare before an emergency occurs.

Commissioners Tom Kress, Chris Boice and Tim Freeman issued the proclamation during their weekly business meeting Wednesday, Sept. 2. Representatives from public safety agencies, local governments, health care organizations, nonprofits and volunteer groups attended the presentation.

The proclamation describes emergency preparedness as a shared responsibility involving individuals, families, businesses and government agencies. Commissioner Boice said Douglas County’s response to past disasters has demonstrated the community’s willingness to work together.

Douglas County Emergency Manager Emily Ring said Preparedness Month provides an opportunity for community partners to strengthen relationships outside of an active emergency. She described disaster response as a team effort and encouraged residents to “learn to be the help, until help arrives.”

Officials recognized representatives from Douglas County Emergency Management, the Douglas County Sheriff’s Office, Oregon State Police, Douglas Forest Protective Association, local fire departments, Cow Creek emergency and fire management, Douglas Public Health Network, CHI Mercy Medical Center, Greater Douglas United Way, Glide Revitalization and other participating organizations.

Speakers emphasized that partnerships developed before an emergency can help agencies and community organizations respond more effectively when a disaster occurs.

Preparedness Resources Highlighted

Several upcoming and ongoing opportunities were discussed during the meeting:

Greater Douglas United Way offers free “Be Two Weeks Ready” classes designed to help households prepare for as long as 14 days without utilities or immediate access to outside assistance.
Free CPR classes are also available through Greater Douglas United Way.
A Disaster Preparedness Fair is scheduled for Saturday, Sept. 19, at the Douglas County Fairgrounds. The event will provide information about emergency planning and resources available within the community.

National Preparedness Month has been observed nationwide since 2004. County officials encouraged residents and businesses to use September to review emergency plans, assemble necessary supplies and learn about resources available in their communities.

Additional information and a photo from the proclamation presentation are available in the Douglas County Government release.