A Montana program designed to help communities deal with tragedy won an award last week from the Federal Emergency Management Agency.

"The award was through FEMA and their individual and community preparedness program," said Betsy Miller from Ready Montana. "Ready Montana won the category of 'Preparing the Whole Community.' Ready Montana is a branch of the Governor's office of Community service, and we encourage all Montanans to prepare for disasters like wildfires and floods.

Ready Montana was one of just a handful of programs to receive an award.

"It's a pretty select program," Miller said. "There were 11 recipients at this awards ceremony and there were, I believe, 130 folks that sent in applications for this nationwide award so we feel pretty proud of it."

Miller said preparation is key in a state like Montana where emergency services and hospitals can be far away for rural residents.

 

More From Newstalk KGVO 1290 AM & 98.3 FM