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September 1, 2020

September Is National Preparedness Month: Disasters Don’t Wait. Make Your Plan Today.

The Houston Office of Emergency Management (OEM) recognizes National Preparedness Month (NPM) each September to promote family and community disaster planning now and throughout the year. As our nation continues to respond to COVID-19, there is no better time to be involved this September.

“Houstonians are resilient, and we have always moved forward together after a major a storm or disaster,” Mayor Sylvester Turner said. “This year we have confronted storms and a global pandemic. National Preparedness Month is a great time to review your plans and make certain you are ready for the next event. We will stay #HoustonStrong by always staying prepared.”

The 2020 NPM theme is: "Disasters Don’t Wait. Make Your Plan Today." Throughout the month, Houston OEM will be sharing preparedness tips via our websites and social media channels:

Make Your Plan Graphic

Week 1 September 1-5: Make A Plan

Talk to your friends and family about how you will communicate before, during, and after a disaster. Make sure to update your plan based on the Centers for Disease Control recommendations due to the coronavirus.

Week 2 September 6-12: Build A Kit

Gather supplies that will last for several days after a disaster for everyone living in your home.  Don’t forget to consider the unique needs each person or pet may have in case you have to evacuate quickly. Update your kits and supplies based on recommendations by the Centers for Disease Control.

Week 3 September 13-19: Prepare for Disasters

Limit the impacts that disasters have on you and your family.  Know the risk of disasters in your area and check your insurance coverage. Learn how to make your home stronger in the face of storms and other common hazards and act fast if you receive a local warning or alert.

Week 4 September 20-26: Teach Youth About Preparedness

Talk to your kids about preparing for emergencies and what to do in case you are separated. Reassure them by providing information about how they can get involved.

For more information about helping your neighborhood get ready for hurricane season during the COVID-19 pandemic, visit https://bit.ly/hurricanecovidprep. Register for AlertHouston at www.AlertHouston.org to receive timely alerts about ongoing incidents in your area.