(ATLANTA) – Christmas is typically the time for celebration, but this year the Georgia Emergency Management and Homeland Security Agency is kicking off the 12 Days of Preparedness campaign to encourage its citizens to prepare for the winter months. From December 25 to January 5, Georgians will learn about topics from winterizing their homes, to safely dealing with winter hazards, as well as what additional items to put in their Ready kits.

“Since winter in Georgia has continuously been unpredictable, we always want to encourage our residents to stay prepared,” said GEMA/HS Director Chris Stallings. “The 12 Days of Preparedness is a great time for Georgians to learn about safely heating homes, outdoor safety for families, and to simply educate themselves on how to respond in various winter weather events.”

The 12 Days of Preparedness serves to raise awareness of winter weather preparations and reinforce the understanding of winter weather terminology and emergency planning. GEMA/HS will distribute winter preparedness information via social media throughout the campaign.

Georgians are encouraged to visit gema.georgia.gov/plan-prepare/ready-georgia for more information on winter weather and preparedness tips on natural and manmade disasters.

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As part of the Office of the Governor, the Georgia Emergency Management and Homeland Security Agency collaborates with local, state and federal governments in partnership with private sector and non-governmental organizations to protect life and property against man-made and natural emergencies. GEMA/HS’s Ready Georgia website and preparedness campaign provides Georgians with the knowledge needed to effectively prepare for disasters. Go to gema.georgia.gov/plan-prepare/ready-georgia for information on developing a custom emergency plan and Ready kit.