National Preparedness Month

The saying goes, “Stay ready, so you don’t have to get ready.” We think that’s pretty fitting especially since September is recognized as National Preparedness Month! The theme this year is “A Lasting Legacy” and the U.S. Department of Homeland Security says, “The life you’ve built is worth protecting. Prepare for disasters to create a lasting legacy for you and your family.” The same can be said for injury prevention: “Those you love are worth protecting!

This month serves as an opportunity to raise awareness around the importance of preparing for emergencies and injuries that could happen at any time. The National Weather Service offers a four-step plan aimed at helping families be prepared in case of an emergency: Step 1 – Learn Your Risks & Responses, Step 2 – Make a Plan, Step 3 – Build a Supply Kit, Step 4 – Get Involved.

Data from a 2016 National Household Survey also showed us that 75% of Americans have disaster supplies in their homes, but that less than 50% of households had created a household emergency plan.

Our friends at Injury Facts noted 67,504 weather-related problems, like flash floods, tropical storms, and heatwaves, in 2019. While FEMA’s Annual Preparedness Survey from 2020 indicated that 77% of surveyed adults had homeowners or renters’ insurance policies, yet only 22% had flood insurance.

Aside from natural disasters that may be out of our control, we understand that many types of injuries are common threats to our daily lives – even in our own homes or during travels. Here are two quick tips:

  • Check your smoke detector batteries when you change your clock for Daylight Savings (Next up: Sunday, November 6).
  • Visit a Car Seat Fitting Station to be sure your children’s seats are installed correctly (You can access our latest free download to help with this reminder and gear up for Child Passenger Safety Week.)

So while emergencies can occur in homes, businesses, schools, and communities, finding ways to prepare for disasters and prevent injuries is sure to reduce risks to overall health and the environment. That’s just one way I’m Safe! can help – we’re here to support your safety efforts with affordable and customizable resources.

National Preparedness Month is a great opportunity to make sure families in your community are engaged and informed. Taking the time to provide them with the resources they need to prepare and prevent will help save lives.