NextStop Blog

September is National Preparedness Month, and this is the perfect time to make sure your family has a plan and the resources it needs. Large or small, emergencies or natural disasters can happen at any time.

Through Ready.gov, an official website the U.S. Department of Homeland Security, you have access to a valuable online resource that can help you with all of your emergency preparedness needs. Don’t wait until it is too late – get started with the basics. Make a plan, build a kit and ensure you are ready for anything that comes up.

Make a Plan

Learn how to make an emergency plan for your family and loved ones, and make sure everyone knows how you will all communicate before, during and after a disaster. Customize your plan to fit your family’s unique needs, and be sure you consider how disasters may impact pets, children, individuals with disabilities and older adults.

Assemble Your Emergency Kit

After an emergency or disaster, your family may need to survive on your own for several days. Have an emergency kit stocked with items, including your own food, water and other supplies, that could last you and your family for several days. It is recommended to have one gallon of water, per person, per day, in your kit. And be sure you have medication and other supplies available for anyone who needs special attention. Visit Ready.gov for suggestions on how you can assemble your own emergency kit.

Be Informed

Check your insurance coverages and make sure you understand the risks of different types of disasters where you live or work. Make sure you stay informed and up to date on the latest information when there is the potential for a natural disaster or emergency, and sign up for emergency alerts so you stay connected to the latest information, warnings and resources available during a disaster.