National Preparedness Month

National Preparedness Month (NPM) is recognized each September to promote family and community disaster planning now and throughout the year. As our nation continues to respond to COVID-19, there is no better time to be involved this September.

The 2020 NPM theme is: “Disasters Don’t Wait. Make Your Plan Today.“

For more information:  www.ready.gov 

Week 1: Make a Plan

• Talk with family members about your emergency plan. Discuss how you will stay in touch when disaster strikes and review CDC recommendations during COVID-19.
• Tailor your plan to specific needs in your house. Consider:
  • Disabilities and older adults
  • Children and pets
  • Medical needs
• Create a budget that includes an emergency savings fund.

Week 2: Build A Kit

• Ensure your kit is stocked with essential items, including what is needed to protect you and your family from COVID-19.
• Consider the unique needs of your family (example: families with infants should include formula, diapers & bottles).
• Have enough supplies for several days and store items in airtight containers.
• Help individuals with disabilities prepare for disasters.

Week 3: Prepare for Disasters

• The CDC has published a #PrepYourHealth Digital Media Toolkit with suggestions on how people can create a community before a disaster or emergency.
• Sign up for emergency alerts so that during a disaster or emergency you receive immediate life-saving information from your state and local municipality.
• If you live in an area that is prone to earthquakes, consider making improvements to your building to fix structural issues that could cause your building to collapse during an earthquake.
• If you live in an area prone to wildfires, create a defensive space around your home by clearing debris or articles that could easily fuel the flames.
• If you live in an area prone to hurricanes, install shutters for all your windows.
• If your area is prone to flooding, keep important documents in a waterproof container. Also, protect your property by purchasing flood insurance.

Week 4: Teach Youth About Preparedness

• Youth are an important part of building a national culture of preparedness; children under the age of 18 make up nearly one-quarter of the entire U.S. population.
• Promote good financial saving practices by providing clear steps to saving, budgeting, setting and meeting financial goals.
• The Consumer Financial Protection Bureau has additional resources online to teach youth financial capability.
• Check out the Ready Kids website for tips on how to prepare your entire family.