JAY – President George W. Bush has designated September as National Preparedness Month, creating an opportunity to raise awareness about the importance of emergency preparedness and to encourage all Americans to better prepare their homes and communities for emergencies.

Jay Fire and Rescue has asked the Jay fifth- and eighth-grade students to participate in an essay contest on preparedness.

An essay will be selected from each grade to win a portable weather band monitor, flashlight, battery/crank hand-held radio, an essential item for every emergency kit.

The contest will be open until Thursday, Sept. 25. Essays should be mailed to the Jay Town Office, Attn: Noel Brown, NPM Essay.

The selected essays will be featured at www.jayfirerescue.com.

The winners will be announced at the North Jay Fire Station in a presentation ceremony during the Jay Fire and Rescue annual Fire Prevention Week open house in October.

National Preparedness Month is an opportunity for local businesses to become more prepared to help themselves and their neighbors. Several businesses have contributed to provide prizes for the essay writers.

Jay Fire and Rescue provided the rechargeable radio prizes, and Franklin County Emergency Management Agency provided the weather alert monitors.

More information on emergency kit items and preparations can be found at www.ready.gov.