Disasters can strike at any moment, and although disasters don’t plan, you can.

Disasters can strike at any moment, and although disasters don’t plan, you can.

According to Ready.gov, September is National Preparedness Month. The 2019 theme is “Prepared, Not Scared.”

Each week of September is surrounded by a different theme to promote family and community disaster response, as well as emergency planning.

Week 1: Sept 1-7

Save Early for Disaster Costs

The Federal Reserve estimates that around 40% of American’s don’t have a minimum of $400 in savings. Plan financially for the possibility of disaster by completing an Emergency Financial First Aid Kit (EFFAK) from FEMA.gov.

Additional Tips:

• Check your insurance coverage while also reviewing the Document and Insure Property Guide.
• Keep some cash on hand in case of emergencies, since ATMs and credit card readers may not always be available.
• Set aside a small amount from each paycheck to stash into your savings account. The goal should be to have around six months’ worth of expenses in your savings in case unexpected events occur.

Week 2: Sept 8-14

Make a Plan to Prepare for Disasters

Creating an emergency plan and practicing it with your family is an excellent form of disaster preparation. Including kids in the disaster planning process can aid them if you’re not around when disaster strikes. Visit ready.gov to create your disaster plan today.

Additional Tips:

• Sign up for local alerts and warnings
• Learn your evacuation zone and create an evacuation plan with your family
• At least twice a year, practice your fire escape plan by organizing a home fire drill with everyone

Week 3: Sept 15-21

Teach Youth to Prepare for Disasters

Teach children what to do in when disaster strikes, both away and at home. Informing them of alternative communication methods can help; how to send a text message, emergency contact numbers, and dialing 9-1-1 for help.

Additional tips:

• Review family emergency communications plan with your kids at the next household meeting
• Including kids medications, stuffed animals, board games, books, and music within the family emergency kit can come in handy.
• Get the kids involved in building their emergency kit using Ready.gov ‘s kit for children.

Week 4: Sept 22-30

Get Involved in Your Community’s Preparedness

Your community needs YOU! Find volunteer and training opportunities for the whole family here.

Finding your local Community Emergency Response Team (CERT) can be one of the best ways to get prepared for disasters. Find your local CERT here and get involved.

Additional Tips:

• Take classes in life savings skills like CPR/AED and first aid, or emergency response
• Check in with neighbors to see how you can help each other out before or after a storm

Check your home or rental insurance coverage and contact your local Rockingham Insurance agent to confirm your coverage is up to date.