Since 2004, communities, organizations, and citizens across the US observe National Preparedness Month each September. This month-long observance, sponsored by the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA), allows us to shine a spotlight on the importance of preparedness on a global, national, and household level, keeping in mind that natural disasters can strike at any time. As we enter this month of awareness, we can come together as individuals, homeowners, communities, and governments to assess our readiness capabilities and take meaningful steps towards more preparedness together.
“National Preparedness Month is a part of a governmental effort to strengthen the United States’ preparedness capabilities. The national preparedness architecture encompasses prevention, protection, response, and recovery efforts to prepare the United States for all hazards – whether terrorist attack or natural disaster.” – NV.gov
The Importance of Natural Disaster Preparedness
Natural disasters leave devastating impacts in their wake. Communities, economies, and the environment are all affected by hurricanes, wildfires, floods, and earthquakes, and the frequency and intensity of these events are on the rise. Preparing for disasters isn’t just a responsibility–it’s a necessity, especially in the face of climate change. Proper planning can and does save lives, protect property, and ensure that communities can recover quickly after a disaster.
Prometheus knows that preparedness goes far beyond having an emergency kit or knowing evacuation routes; it involves comprehensive planning that includes communication strategies, effective resource allocation, and resilient infrastructure to protect citizens. By investing in disaster preparedness, we aim to help nations minimize the chaos that usually accompanies these events and ensure a quicker, more effective response.
How to Report Emergencies
In the inevitable chaos of a disaster, clear communication is one of the best ways to bolster effective response. Reporting emergencies quickly and accurately can save lives and help direct resources where they’re most needed. Here are a few steps everyone should know:
- Know Emergency Numbers: In the US, 911 is the primary number for emergencies. Backup numbers for local emergency services, utilities, and disaster response agencies are also good to have on hand.
- Use Emergency Alerts: Many governments and communities use emergency alert systems that send notifications directly to your phone. Take the time to activate these notifications across your devices to ensure you receive them!
- Provide Clear Information: When reporting an emergency yourself, try to stay calm and clearly state your location, the nature of the emergency, and any immediate dangers. Clear and accurate reports can help first responders prioritize response efforts.
Preparation Tips for All: Individuals, Homeowners, and Communities
What makes National Preparedness Month efforts so great is that they empower community members to consider and embrace their own protection and preparation measures. By highlighting how individuals, homeowners, and communities can stay prepared, we hope to inspire readiness and effective response nationwide.
INDIVIDUALS & FAMILIES
- Create an Emergency Kit: Include essentials like water, shelf-stable food and snacks, a flashlight, batteries, first-aid supplies, and important documents that can help you navigate the aftermath of a disaster gracefully.
- Make a Family Plan: Ensure that all family members know what to do, where to go, and who to contact in case of a disaster. This is a great way to keep everyone involved. Some families have monthly or yearly safety meetings to practice evacuation or sheltering in the event of a fire, flood, or earthquake.
- Stay Informed: Keep track of weather updates and disaster warnings through reliable sources, and sign up for alerts in your area.
HOMEOWNERS
- Strengthen Your Home: Did you know that you can invest in structural improvements that make your home more resilient to disasters? Reinforcing roofs, windows, and doors is a great place to start.
- Review Insurance Policies: Make sure your homeowner’s insurance covers natural disasters common in your area, and increase your insurance umbrella to cover personal belongings if needed.
- Safeguard Important Documents: Store essential documents–like insurance papers, IDs, and property deeds–in waterproof and fireproof containers.
COMMUNITIES
- Build Strong Networks: Local governments can help establish community groups focused on disaster preparedness and response, putting power in the hands of engaged community members and involving local citizens at every step.
- Coordinate with Local Authorities: Organizations can work with local governments to ensure there are clear evacuation routes and shelters in place for schools, churches, neighborhoods, and high-traffic areas.
- Educate and Train: Communities can host workshops or drills to ensure community members know what to do when disaster strikes–practice makes perfect!
Participation Encouraged: National Preparedness Month 2024
This September, we can focus on individual preparedness while also encouraging others to join in. The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) offers turnkey campaign materials that organizations and individuals can use to promote National Preparedness Month, too! You can visit the EPA’s website to learn more about National Preparedness Month, explore public service announcements, or read through pre-written social media captions and graphics related to various emergency topics.
These resources make it easy to spread awareness and engage others in relevant readiness activities in September and beyond. Whether it’s sharing information on social media, hosting a preparedness event, or simply starting a conversation, everyone has a role to play in creating a culture of preparedness.
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