National Preparedness Month

National Preparedness Month is observed every September in the United States. The month reminds individuals, families, businesses, schools, and communities to prepare for emergencies before they happen. These emergencies may include hurricanes, floods, wildfires, earthquakes, severe storms, power outages, disease outbreaks, and human-caused disasters.

History of National Preparedness Month

National Preparedness Month was launched in 2004 by the Federal Emergency Management Agency as part of its Ready Campaign. The campaign was created to help people prepare for emergencies and disasters by making plans, building emergency kits, staying informed, and knowing what to do when ordinary routines are disrupted.

The observance takes place in September, a month that falls during the peak of Atlantic hurricane season. However, National Preparedness Month is not only about hurricanes. Its message applies to many kinds of emergencies, including fires, floods, tornadoes, earthquakes, winter storms, cyber disruptions, and other hazards that can affect homes, workplaces, and communities.

Preparedness has become an important part of public safety because disasters can happen quickly and may leave people without power, water, transportation, communication, or access to basic supplies. National Preparedness Month encourages people to take practical steps before an emergency occurs.

Interesting Facts About National Preparedness Month

• National Preparedness Month is recognized each September to promote family and community disaster planning.
• The observance is managed through FEMA’s Ready Campaign.
• A basic emergency plan should include communication, evacuation, shelter, medical needs, pets, and important documents.
• Emergency supplies often include water, nonperishable food, flashlights, batteries, first-aid items, medications, chargers, copies of documents, and hygiene products.
• Preparedness is important for everyone, but older adults, people with disabilities, children, and people with medical needs may require extra planning.
• Businesses, schools, and community organizations can also use the month to review emergency procedures and train staff.

How National Preparedness Month Is Observed

National Preparedness Month is observed by taking practical steps to prepare for emergencies. Families can make or update an emergency plan, choose a meeting place, write down important contacts, and make sure every household member knows what to do if phones, power, or transportation are unavailable.

People can also build or refresh an emergency kit, check smoke alarms and carbon monoxide detectors, learn local evacuation routes, sign up for emergency alerts, and talk with children about safety in a calm and age-appropriate way. Community members may volunteer with organizations such as the American Red Cross, attend preparedness events, or help neighbors who may need extra support during a disaster.

When Is National Preparedness Month in 2026?

National Preparedness Month is observed annually throughout September, beginning on September 1.

Observations