MEMA Director Encourages Mainers to Prepare During September Preparedness Month

AUGUSTA, MAINE - Severe weather and other emergencies can affect any Maine community. Flooding, washed-out roads, power outages, coastal storm surge, and other hazards remind us that Maine is not immune to extreme weather and that preparedness is more important than ever.

September is Preparedness Month in Maine, and Maine Emergency Management Agency (MEMA) is encouraging individuals, families, businesses, and communities to take time this month to prepare for emergencies.

Preparedness starts with having a plan. Mainers should consider the hazards that could affect their community and talk with family members about what they would do if an emergency occurred.

Consider:

• What would you do if a road washed out and you could not get to the grocery store for several days?
• Where would you go if you had to leave your home because of flooding or another emergency?
• What would you take with you if you had to evacuate quickly?
• How would you manage an extended power outage?
• How would you stay in touch with family members if normal communication methods were unavailable?

Every household should also have an emergency kit with essential supplies such as food, water, medications, flashlights, batteries, and other items that may be needed during an emergency.

Mainers can find preparedness information and resources through the Maine Emergency Management Agency, including guidance on making an emergency plan, building a kit, and staying informed. Residents should also learn about emergency alerts available in their communities and sign up for alerts that can provide critical information during an emergency.

Preparedness also means looking out for one another. Check on neighbors, particularly older adults, people with disabilities, and those who live alone. A simple check-in during a power outage, sharing information, or offering assistance can make a meaningful difference.

Taking a few minutes to make a plan, build an emergency kit, learn how to receive emergency information, and check on neighbors can help individuals and communities respond more effectively when an emergency occurs.

Together, we can make Maine a more ready and resilient state.

Pete Rogers
Director
Maine Emergency Management Agency

For other safety and preparedness information, visit MEMA's website or find us on Facebook, X, Bluesky, and Nextdoor.

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