Stay Ready So You Don’t Have to Get Ready: September is Preparedness Month!
September isn’t just about pumpkin spice lattes, apple picking, and cozy sweater weather; it’s also National Preparedness Month! That’s right, while you’re unpacking your fall décor, it’s a great time to make sure you and your loved ones are ready for whatever surprises life might throw your way. Here are some simple, practical ways to stay prepared:
Build Your “Just in Case” Kit
Think of this as your ultimate emergency go-bag. Whether it’s a weather event, power outage, or unexpected road trip detour, you’ll be glad you packed it. Include:
Flashlight (and extra batteries)
First aid kit
Bottled water & nonperishable snacks
A solar-powered phone charger
A printed contact list
Stay In the Know
Download local alert apps, sign up for text alerts, and make sure your phone has emergency numbers saved.
Make a Family Game Plan
It doesn’t have to be boring! Practice a quick family drill:
Where will you meet if you can’t get home?
Who’s your out-of-town emergency contact?
How will you check in if cell service is down?
Bonus tip: Turn it into a scavenger hunt for kids—find the flashlight, the first aid kit, and the safest meeting spot!
Don’t Forget the Furry Friends
Your pets need a plan, too! Pack some food, water, medications, and perhaps a favorite toy to comfort them during stressful times.
Check Your Insurance and Documents.
Make copies of IDs, medical records, and insurance info. Store them in a waterproof folder (or digitally in a secure cloud storage system).
Because when you stay ready, you don’t have to get ready. To learn more about National Preparedness Month in the US visit, National Preparedness Month | Ready.gov. For tips on Emergency Preparedness in Canada visit, Emergency Preparedness.
