National Preparedness Month (NPM) is an observance each September to raise awareness about the importance of preparing for disasters and emergencies that could happen at any time. The 2021 theme is “Prepare to Protect. Preparing for disasters is protecting everyone you love.”

Each week in September, the campaign will focus on a different aspect of preparedness for individuals, families and communities.

This week’s (September 1-4) campaign is 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.

Make a plan today. Your family may not be together if a disaster strikes, so it is important to know which types of disasters could affect your area. Know how you’ll contact one another and reconnect if separated. Establish a family meeting place that’s familiar and easy to find.

  • Step 1: Put a plan together by discussing the questions below with your family, friends or household to start your emergency plan.
  • Step 2:  Consider specific needs in your household.
  • Step 3: Fill out a Family Emergency Plan
  • Step 4: Practice your plan with your family/household

Visit Ready.gov for more information and downloadable forms to help you and your family Make A Plan today!