09/19/2026
🌊 September is National Preparedness Month: Are You Ready?
As we cross the halfway mark of National Preparedness Month, the U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary Emergency Management & Disaster Response team reminds all communities nationwide that preparedness is a year-round commitment. September is the perfect time to build your resilience.
With severe weather patterns, potential flooding, and winter storms on the horizon across various parts of the country, now is the time to take proactive steps to protect yourself, your family, and your community.
To help you get started, take on a weekly focus this September using these five essential preparedness steps:
1️⃣ Sign up for local alerts — Ensure you are signed up for your local official emergency notification systems to receive real-time warnings during disasters or life-threatening events.
2️⃣Make a plan — Know how to find and get in touch with your loved ones when an emergency happens. Write down your communication plan and share it with those close to you.
3️⃣Pack a go-bag — Prepare a backpack or portable tote with essential items—such as medications, extra clothes, and water—that you can grab quickly if you need to evacuate.
4️⃣Build a stay box — Keep essential supplies on hand at home in case you need to shelter in place and manage daily household needs independently for a few days.
5️⃣Connect with your neighbors — Building community connections before a disaster makes it much easier to support one another when emergencies strike. Get involved locally today!
Semper Paratus: Disasters can strike anywhere, anytime. Use the rest of this September to review your emergency plans, check your supply kits, and ensure you have reliable ways to receive critical public safety information.
Visit Ready.gov for nationwide resources, toolkits, and guidance on how you and your community can stay safe and resilient.
