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National Preparedness Month

September is National Preparedness Month, which is the motivation to doing the annual CodeRED test in September. To learn more about how you can help your entire community by being prepared yourself, please read below.

Together We're Ready

In an effort to enhance awareness of the importance of emergency preparedness for families and individuals, Governor Charlie Baker has proclaimed September to be 'Emergency Preparedness Month' in the Commonwealth. Working with the Executive Office of Public Safety and Security (EOPSS) and the Department of Public Health (DPH), the Massachusetts Emergency Management Agency (MEMA) will promote public preparedness and safety throughout the month. These efforts are in conjunction with a nationwide effort to encourage all Americans to take simple steps to better prepare themselves and their families for emergencies at home, work and school.

You can take action by developing a family preparedness plan for weather emergencies, power outages and other events. Whether following advice to stay in your home under a shelter-in-place request or to evacuate your home and neighborhood, be informed, plan ahead, and be prepared.

  • Be Informed:

Communicating with family members is essential to make sure everyone is okay. Have a simple plan in place that accounts for limited cell phone service, texting and e-mails. Make sure everyone in your family has a mutual contact out of the region or state so that person can help keep tabs on you and your loved ones.

Sign up for CodeRED alerts on the REMA home page and call 2-1-1 for information about critical health and human services available in your community.

  • Plan Ahead:

Think about your family's health needs, vulnerabilities and capabilities when you make your will help keep you and your family safe.

  • Be Prepared:

Every home should have a basic emergency preparedness kit that can be used for any emergency. Store your kit in an area that is dry and easy to get to. Review your kit every six months to identify and replace outdated supplies. While some items should be in everyone's kit, it is important to adapt the kit for the needs of you and your family.