September Is National Preparedness Month

The beginning of September is often seen as the unofficial end to summer. For many Texas residents, this month is a welcome break from sweltering summer temperatures. But as a less welcoming reminder, September is also the peak period for hurricane season and serves as a time to reflect on the events of 9/11.

Since the threat of both natural and man-made disasters is always eminent, it is important to be prepared year-round. September serves as National Preparedness Month, as established by the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) in 2004. National Preparedness Month is an annual campaign to encourage and educate Americans to prepare for all types of disasters.

This year’s National Preparedness Month theme is “Disasters don’t wait. Make your plan today.” In each week of September, individuals, families, and communities are encouraged to take a step to prepare for disasters. The actions for each week are as follows:

• Week 1 Sept. 1-5: Make A Plan

• Week 2 Sept. 6-12: Build A Kit

• Week 3 Sept. 13-19: Prepare for Disasters

• Week 4 Sept. 20-26: Teach Youth About Preparedness

Visit www.ready.gov/september to learn more about how you can implement these actions during each week in September. This website also features other components of National Preparedness Month, such as educational videos and graphics.

September may mark a change in season, but the need to prepare for disasters will always remain constant. Regardless of the month or situation, it is important to heed the advice of this year’s National Preparedness Theme, “Disasters don’t wait. Make your plan today.”

For further information, please contact the Fayette County Extension Office at (979) 968- 5831.