September Is Disaster Preparedness Month

Disclosure: Simple Is More and our authors do not receive a commission through recommended links in this content. We do not have any conflicts of interest to disclose. Please visit our editorial policy, disclaimer policy, and terms of use for more information.

Disasters can strike at any time, often without warning. Whether it’s a hurricane, wildfire, earthquake, or power outage, being prepared can make all the difference.

Ready.gov’s September National Disaster Preparedness Month is a reminder to take steps now to protect yourself, your family, and your community. Use the opportunity to review your emergency plans, update your supplies, and ensure you’re ready to handle whatever comes your way.

Representative Mark E. Green, MD (TN) Chairman, House Homeland Security Committee said, “Nearly 20 years after the historic devastation from Hurricane Katrina, natural disasters still threaten the lives of Americans and our critical infrastructure. Just last year, we learned from the fires that tore through Lahaina, Hawaii, tragically taking more than 100 lives, that disaster can strike anywhere at any moment and if we are not prepared, the impacts can be catastrophic.”

He went on to add, “Whether preparing for a wildfire, hurricane, earthquake, or even just excessive summer heat and unpredictable winter weather, the best thing anyone can do is develop a plan for their family, home, business, and community. As a congressional co-chair for National Preparedness Month, I encourage every American to use FEMA’s preparedness resources to ensure they and their loved ones can stay safe when disaster strikes.” Now is a great time to start and stay on track and here are a few tips to help.

Start the Conversation

Ready.gov was started in 2003 as part of a national public service campaign to educate and empower people to prepare for, respond to, and mitigate emergencies and disasters. The 2024 theme is Start the Conversation.

The organization posted on its website about the importance of conversations in helping families take the steps needed to get ready and stay safe. These conversations shouldn’t feel rushed or uncomfortable.

Families are encouraged to hold discussions over a period of time to make decisions that work for everyone. The key is to just get started, and September is the perfect time to do it.

Make a Plan

The first step in disaster preparedness is having a plan. Sit down with your family and discuss how you’ll handle different emergency scenarios. Identify safe spots in your home for events like tornadoes or earthquakes.

Plan escape routes and meeting points if you need to evacuate quickly. Make sure everyone knows how to contact each other if you’re separated and establish an out-of-town contact who can act as a communication hub.

Include pets in your plan, as they will need care and shelter, too. Don’t forget about special health requirements, children, and elderly family members. Then, practice your plan regularly so everyone knows what to do when every second counts.

Build an Emergency Kit

An emergency kit is essential for disaster preparedness. Your kit should include basic supplies to sustain your family for at least 72 hours.

I recommend making a list of items to keep in your emergency kit to make sure you don’t forget something and to help with inventorying the items. The list is extra handy to remember items like phones, medications, and cash that may not stay with the kit all of the time.

Key items include water (one gallon per person per day), non-perishable food, a flashlight, extra batteries, a first-aid kit, and any necessary medications. Don’t forget personal items like toiletries, extra clothing, and important documents stored in waterproof containers.

Include masks, hand sanitizers, and cleaning supplies in your kit to keep everyone safe and healthy, especially during a pandemic or in situations where hygiene is critical. If you have pets, make sure to pack food, water, and any medications they may need. Regularly check your kit and replace expired items to ensure your supplies are always up-to-date.

Stay Informed

During a disaster, having reliable information is crucial. Sign up for alerts from local emergency services, the National Weather Service, or other trusted sources to receive timely updates. A weather radio can keep you informed even if the power goes out. Understand the risks specific to your area, such as flood zones, wildfire risks, or hurricane paths, so you know what to expect.

Social media can also be a helpful tool, but always verify information from trusted sources before acting on it. Knowing what’s happening in your community can help you make better decisions during a disaster. Stay connected with neighbors and local organizations, as they can be vital resources in an emergency.

Secure Your Home

Protecting your home against potential disasters can reduce damage and keep your family safe. Consider securing heavy furniture to walls to prevent tipping during earthquakes. Install storm shutters or reinforce windows to protect against strong winds. Keep trees and shrubs trimmed to reduce the risk of fire or damage during high winds.

Regular home maintenance can also help identify potential hazards before they become serious. Simple steps like clearing gutters, repairing leaks, and securing outdoor furniture can go a long way in preventing disaster-related damage. If you live in an area prone to flooding, consider elevating electrical systems and using waterproof sealants in basements.

Know How to Shut off Utilities

During a disaster, it may be necessary to shut off utilities like gas, water, or electricity to prevent further damage. Familiarize yourself with where shut-off valves and switches are located in your home. Practice turning them off so you’re confident you can do it quickly if needed to prevent fires, gas leaks, or other dangerous situations during an emergency.

Make Financial Preparations

Disasters can have a significant financial impact, from home repairs to lost income. Review your insurance policies to ensure you have adequate coverage for potential disasters in your area. Flood, fire, and earthquake coverage are often not included in standard homeowners’ policies and may need to be purchased separately.

It’s also a good idea to have an emergency fund to cover unexpected expenses. Preparing financially can help you recover faster and reduce the stress of dealing with a disaster.

Get Involved in Your Community

Preparedness doesn’t stop at your front door. It’s a community thing. Join local emergency response groups or attend community preparedness meetings. Getting involved can provide valuable resources and connections that can be lifesaving in a disaster.

Community resilience is stronger when everyone is prepared, informed, and ready to support one another. By working together, you can make your community safer and better equipped to handle whatever comes its way. Offer to help neighbors, especially those who are elderly or have special needs, with their preparedness efforts.

Featured Image Credit: David Pereiras/Shutterstock.