It's that time of year again - National Preparedness Month.  September is a month for preparedness, the perfect time to make sure you are truly ready for the unexpected.

Following the 2001 attacks in New York City, efforts to encourage preparedness gained official support, especially after the Department of Homeland Security launched a program called the Ready Campaign.  Since then, each September is dedicated to educating and encouraging Americans to prepare for and respond appropriately to emergencies.  Utilize our action plan below to get started.

A - Assess Your Risk

To begin, evaluate the risks you could face.  Consider your environment - Do you live downstream from a dam? Are you near a volcano? Do you live in an environment prone to earthquakes, tsunamis, tornadoes, or hurricanes?  Always include man-made disasters, such as war or terrorism.  It is also important to prepare for emergencies on a smaller scale, like household emergencies, such as fire or health issues.

B - Build Kits and Skills

Now that you have assessed your potential risks, it is time to start acquiring life-sustaining supplies and skills.  Use our pillars of preparedness and resources to ensure you have the recommended tools and equipment.  Learn how to use them once you obtain them.  If you desire, most communities have a few courses through a college or agency to provide certifications; check into your community to see what is available.  At the very least, there should be a Basic Life Support class where you can get certified in cardiopulmonary resuscitation.

C - Communicate and Practice Your Plans

Assemble your plan by including key contact information and assigning each family member specific roles.  A core part of preparedness is making sure everyone knows their roles during an emergency.  Just as important is to practice those roles so that skills become second nature rather than a fading memory when they are needed most.

D - Develop Community 

In preparedness, we are stronger together by connecting family, friends, and local emergency response programs to combine forces, skills, and abilities.  Start through small connections and work to grow your community together.

E - Ensure Awareness

Choose your devices and services to stay informed and up-to-date on events near you.  In addition to those services and devices, the government also uses the Emergency Broadcast System — the same system through which Amber Alerts are sent and received.

Start today: review your potential risks, update your kits, talk with your family, and connect with your community.  Preparedness is peace of mind during moments of disaster.  Use our pillars of preparedness and resources to assist you through your preparation journey.

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