September is National Preparedness Month – and a perfect time to ask yourself: if disaster strikes tomorrow, will you be ready? Start with a basic emergency supply kit. If you had to evacuate your home at a moment’s notice, would you have the essentials ready to go? A well-stocked emergency supply kit can make all the difference. According to Ready.gov, here’s what every household should have:

• One gallon of water per person per day for at least three days, for drinking and sanitation.

• At least a three-day supply of non-perishable food.

• Battery-powered or hand crank radio and extra batteries.

• Flashlight and extra batteries.

• First aid kit.

• Whistle to signal for help.

• Dust masks help filter contaminated air and plastic sheeting and duct tape to shelter-in-place.

• Moist towelettes, garbage bags, and plastic ties for personal sanitation.

• Manual can opener for food.

• Local area maps.

• Cell phones with chargers, inverters, or solar chargers.

Create a family communication plan. Supplies alone aren’t enough. Planning how to communicate and where to go is equally critical. Here’s how to get started:

• Sign up for alerts. Make sure everyone in your household can receive emergency alerts from local officials.
• Talk through possible scenarios. Discuss what you would do in different disaster types – flood, wildfire, earthquake, or winter storm.
• Choose meeting locations. Pick safe, familiar places where your family can reunite if separated. Ensure these are accessible for those with disabilities or special needs – and don’t forget pet-friendly options.
• Share contact information. Create a paper copy of key phone numbers and emails for family, schools, doctors and service providers – and give a copy to each family member.
• Practice your plan. Hold regular family meetings to review your emergency strategy, then rehearse it – just like you would a fire drill.

Disasters rarely give warnings. Being prepared isn’t just smart – it could save lives. Take the time this National Preparedness Month to build your kit, make a plan, and involve every member of your household. You never know when you’ll need it.

For more tips and resources, visit www.ready.gov.