“Hurricane Harvey has reminded each of us that disasters can change our lives and our communities in an instant.

Whether it’s a hurricane, a tornado, an earthquake, or a terrorist attack, knowing what to do when disaster strikes can be a matter of survival for you and your family.

President Trump has proclaimed September 2017 as National Preparedness Month, and I encourage all Americans to participate.

(National Preparedness Month (NPM) encourages Americans to take steps to prepare for emergencies in their homes, businesses, schools, and communities. Courtesy of FEMA and YouTube)

This year’s theme is ‘Disasters don’t plan ahead. You can.’

Everyone’s preparedness plans are a bit different, based on where you live, what kind of disasters are likely to affect you, and what types of care your family may need.

(Here’s an easy way to be a hero: Prepare for your family in advance of aa disaster. Courtesy of FEMA and YouTube)

Disasters can be overwhelming to think about, but don’t wait until it’s too late to ask yourself hard questions, and come up with good answers.

Visit Ready.gov, which can help you create an emergency plan that fits your family and unique circumstances best.

Once you’ve made a plan, practice it.

(Winging it is not an emergency plan. Talk to your kids about who to call, where to meet, what to pack. Be Your Families Hero. Courtesy of FEMA and YouTube)

When disaster strikes, you may only have a few minutes to react, so make sure everyone in your family knows what to do and where to go.

You can’t replace your loved ones.

But you can help keep them safe by planning ahead. 

Ready.gov is a great place to start.”

– Acting Secretary of Homeland Security Elaine Duke

(Be Informed, Make a Plan, Build a Kit and Get Involved. Courtesy of FEMA and YouTube)

National Preparedness Month