(ATLANTA) – September 1st marks the beginning of the National Preparedness Month. Each year, the Georgia Emergency Management and Homeland Security Agency (GEMA/HS) encourages residents to take preparedness measures that can make a difference down the line. Getting ready for emergencies like home fires, power outages and local floods means you’re more prepared for disasters like wildfires, flash flooding, hurricanes and more.

This year’s National Preparedness Month’s theme is “Preparedness Starts at Home,” which focuses on getting back to the essentials of preparedness by asking families to take four key actions to prepare for any disaster.

“While we can’t predict what this hurricane season or any disaster season may bring, we do know that the best time to prepare is before an emergency happens,” said GEMA/HS Director Josh Lamb. “National Preparedness Month serves as an important reminder for all Georgians to take simple steps now to protect their families, homes, and communities.”

Throughout the month, all residents are encouraged to take steps to ensure the safety of themselves, their families, pets, neighbors, and communities. Individuals know the unique needs of themselves and those they care for best, so it’s important for preparedness to start small. There will be a new theme each week to help guide residents on how to prepare themselves for any emergency. The Ready Georgia page offers tools to assist with creating emergency plans and designing emergency kits. The weekly themes during this year’s National Preparedness Month are as follows:

  • Week 1 (Sept. 1–6): Know Your Risk
  • Week 2 (Sept. 7–13): Make a Family Emergency Plan
  • Week 3 (Sept. 14–20): Build an Emergency Supply Kit
  • Week 4 (Sept. 21–30): Get Involved in Your Community

For tips and tools to get your family and community ready for a disaster, visit www.gema.georgia.gov/plan-prepare/ready-georgia. Additional preparedness information is also available from your local EMA Director.

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As part of the Office of the Governor, the Georgia Emergency Management and Homeland Security Agency collaborates with local, state and federal governments in partnership with private sector and non-governmental organizations to protect life and property against man-made and natural emergencies. GEMA/HS’s Ready Georgia website and preparedness campaign provides Georgians with the knowledge needed to effectively prepare for disasters. Go to gema.georgia.gov/plan-prepare/ready-georgia for information on developing a custom emergency plan and Ready kit.