As we saw recently with Tropical Storm Nicholas, a natural disaster can strike at almost any time of year in Texas, which is why it’s so important to always be prepared. September is National Preparedness Month, a time when people are encouraged to develop a plan to protect their families and property should a disaster strike.  

Recently Gov. Greg Abbott issued a proclamation declaring September 2021 Preparedness Month in Texas. Texans are encouraged to prepare for a natural disaster with their families by creating a communications strategy, deciding on an emergency meeting location, building a three-day disaster preparedness kit, and signing up for emergency alerts. 

To help with your planning, the Texas Division of Emergency Management is highlighting some key preparedness topics alongside Ready.gov every week this month. Some of their tips include:

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 Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommendations due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

Build A Kit
Gather enough supplies to last for several days for everyone living in your home following a disaster.  Don’t forget to consider the unique needs each person or pet may have in case you must evacuate quickly. Learn more about what you should include in your kit here.

Low-Cost, No-Cost Preparedness
Limit the impact disasters have on you and your family by knowing the risk of disasters in your area and checking your insurance coverage. Learn how to make your home stronger in the face of storms and other common hazards, and don’t forget to act fast if you receive a local warning or alert. (Make sure you are signed up to receive local emergency alerts via text.)

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. Here are some ideas for including your kids in preparing for a disaster.

Visit txready.org or additional safety tips and resources.