FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:  April 30, 2008
CONTACT:  Chelle Somsen, (605) 773-3804, Chelle.Somsen@state.sd.us

State Historical Society urges disaster preparedness

PIERRE, S.D. -- Cultural heritage organizations are urged to set aside some time on May 1 to work on disaster preparedness, advises State Archivist Chelle Somsen with the South Dakota State Historical Society.

In a grass-roots effort started in 2006 by the Society of American Archivists, the MayDay program has grown to encompass allied organizations such as the Heritage Emergency National Task Force and Council of State Archivists.

“Archives, libraries, museums and historical societies are encouraged to spend some time doing an activity on May 1 that will benefit that organization’s ability to react and  respond to a disaster,” said Somsen. “MayDay is a good reminder every year that cultural heritage organizations can use to make sure that they are prepared in the event of an emergency. “

Some ideas Somsen suggested for disaster preparedness on May 1 are updating disaster plans; conducting a disaster drill; checking smoke detectors and fire extinguishers; performing a building check to look for hazards such as leaking pipes and roofs that need repair; replenishing the stock of supplies that may be needed in an emergency; and identifying the location of important essential records.

“If organizations do not have a disaster plan, now might be a good time to start working on one,” Somsen said.

If cultural organizations need assistance in creating a disaster plan they can contact the state archives in the South Dakota Cultural Heritage Center at (605) 773-3804.