September is National Preparedness Month, a time to ensure that our communities, workplaces, and homes are ready for emergencies. Preparedness is not just about stocking up on supplies—it’s about empowering individuals with the skills they need to save lives.

Preparedness Starts at Home, the 2025 theme, focuses on getting back to the essentials of preparedness. Here are some key actions you can take to prepare for any disaster you may face:

Know your risk

Know what could happen where you and your family live. This helps you figure out what you need to do to stay safe. You can explore various disasters and emergencies on Ready.gov. 

Make a family emergency plan

Having a plan early helps you reduce stress and save time and money. Create a Family Emergency Plan. Disasters are costly but preparing for them doesn’t have to be. Taking time to prepare now can help save you thousands of dollars and give you peace of mind when the next disaster or emergency occurs. Visit Ready.gov’s low and no-cost tip page to see how you can be better prepared without spending a lot of money.

Build an emergency supply kit

Having enough food, water and medicine can help you stay safe and comfortable until help arrives. Having what you need can also prevent injury and damage to your home.

Build a go-bag with all the essentials you might need, so you don’t need to scramble in an evacuation situation.

Find a list of supplies at Build A Kit at Ready.gov.