National Preparedness Month: disasters don’t wait

September is National Preparedness Month, a time to promote family and community disaster planning now and throughout the year. This year’s theme is “Disasters Don’t Wait. Make Your Plan Today.”

As our nation continues to respond to COVID-19, the wildfires in the west, and other natural disasters, it’s especially important to think about what you will need in case of an emergency and to plan ahead.

Each week during National Preparedness Month has suggested steps to help people and communities prepare by developing the capabilities needed to prevent, protect against, respond to, recover from, and mitigate against all threats and hazards.

• September 1-5: Make A Plan – Talk to your friends and family about how you will communicate before, during, and after a disaster. Make sure to update your plan based on the Centers for Disease Control recommendations due to the coronavirus.
• September 6-12: Build A Kit – Gather supplies that will last for several days after a disaster for everyone living in your home. Don’t forget to consider the unique needs each person or pet may have in case you have to evacuate quickly. Update your kits and supplies based on recommendations by the Centers for Disease Control.
• September 13-19: Prepare for Disasters – Limit the impacts that disasters have on you and your family. Know the risk of disasters in your area and check your insurance coverage. Learn how to make your home stronger in the face of storms and other common hazards and act fast if you receive a local warning or alert.
• September 20-26: Teach Youth About Preparedness – Talk to your kids about preparing for emergencies and what to do in case you are separated. Reassure them by providing information about how they can get involved.

For more information about National Preparedness Month and how to prepare for a disaster, please follow the links below.
National Preparedness Month, Ready.gov
National Preparedness, Federal Emergency Management Agency