August is the first-ever National Emergency Management Awareness Month, a campaign designed to spotlight the work of emergency managers in preparing communities for, responding to, and recovering from disasters.

In Indiana, state leaders have also proclaimed this week as Emergency Management Agency Appreciation Week.

Locally, Knox County Emergency Management Agency Director John Streeter says the observance gives the public a closer look at how emergency managers keep communities safe before, during, and after an emergency. “We’re taught the National Incident Management System, which is a presidential directive,” Streeter explained. “All fire, law enforcement, EMS, emergency management—everybody from A to Z in the United States—is trained on how to work this and coordinate together. So when we get there, we look to see if things are set up right and make sure everybody can talk to each other.”

Officials say the awareness effort is also about strengthening relationships with elected leaders, nonprofits, schools, and the media—ensuring that when emergencies happen, communication and coordination are already in place.