National Preparedness Month Focuses on Planning
In light of the hurricanes and wildfires of 2017, FEMA and its Ready Campaign have chosen to focus their 2018 National Preparedness Month initiative on planning, with the theme "Disasters Happen. Prepare Now. Learn How."
According to FEMA, while many people take at least one action to prepare for emergencies, only 46 percent take three actions. In light of the hurricanes and wildfires of 2017, FEMA and its Ready Campaign have chosen to focus their 2018 National Preparedness Month initiative on planning, with the theme "Disasters Happen. Prepare Now. Learn How."
Each year, FEMA recognizes September as National Preparedness Month and uses its Ready Campaign to remind the public that preparedness is key in all kinds of emergencies and disasters. The campaign provides a number of resources to help people implement recommended preparedness actions, including toolkits, videos, training, and webinars.
"National Preparedness Month serves as a springboard for building a culture of preparedness," FEMA Administrator Brock Long said. "Now is the time to expand our preparedness planning beyond having a communication plan, to include becoming financially ready for the unexpected costs associated with disasters. Make sure to have adequate insurance coverage, and learn a life-saving skill like CPR."
Each week of September has been assigned a specific theme to guide preparedness efforts: Week 1 is Make and Practice your Plan, Week 2 is Learn Life Saving Skills, Week 3 is Check your Coverage, and Week 4 is Save for an Emergency. In addition, Sept. 15 has been designated a National Day of Action.
"Thinking ahead can save lives. So we are working to create a 'culture of preparedness' nationwide, which requires all Americans to prioritize preparedness efforts in their daily lives," said Kirstjen M. Nielsen, secretary of Homeland Security. "I urge all of you to take the time to evaluate your preparedness and learn how to protect your family so that if disaster strikes, you are ready."