National Preparedness Month Begins

Last Friday marked the beginning of National Preparedness Month, a time where we are encouraged to focus on “readying ourselves for disasters, both natural and man-made.” The theme this year is “Disasters Don’t Plan Ahead. You Can.”

Acting Secretary of Homeland Security Elaine Duke stressed the importance of preparedness in the kickoff of National Preparedness Month. “Hurricane Harvey has reminded each of us that disasters can change our lives and our communities in an instant. Whether it’s a hurricane, a tornado, an earthquake, or a terrorist attack, knowing what to do when disaster strikes can be a matter of survival for you and your family,” said Duke.

The goal of National Preparedness Month is to increase the overall number of individuals, families, and communities that engage in preparedness actions. Each week of National Preparedness Month has a different theme:

• Week 1: September 1-9, Make a Plan for Yourself, Family and Friends
• Week 2: September 10-16, Plan to Help Your Neighbor and Community
• Week 3: September 17-23, Practice and Build Out Your Plans
• Week 4: September 24-30, Get Involved! Be a Part of Something Larger

For more information about National Preparedness Month, please follow the links below.
National Preparedness Month, Ready.gov
President Donald J. Trump Proclaims September 2017 as National Preparedness Month, White House
DHS Acting Secretary Elaine Duke Statement On The Kickoff Of National Preparedness Month, Department of Homeland Security