Bowser Administration Recognizes September as DC Preparedness Month

(Washington, DC) - As National Preparedness Month kicks off across the country, the Bowser Administration has officially proclaimed September as "DC Preparedness Month." All month long, the District of Columbia Homeland Security Emergency Management Agency (HSEMA) is encouraging Washingtonians to take simple steps now that can help keep themselves, their families, and their communities safe when an emergency happens.

Emergencies can happen anywhere and often with little warning. From extreme heat and severe storms to power outages and other unexpected disruptions, being prepared can make it easier to stay safe, make informed decisions, and help others when it matters most.

"Preparedness does not have to be complicated or expensive," said DC Homeland Security and Emergency Management Agency (HSEMA) Director Clint Osborn. "Knowing the risks where you live, having a plan, keeping a few important supplies on hand, and knowing where to get trusted information can make a difference during an emergency. And when we know our neighbors and look out for one another, we make the entire District more resilient."

Throughout September, HSEMA will share practical preparedness information through the ReadyDC campaign and work with District agencies and community partners to help residents take steps to prepare at home, at work, and in their neighborhoods.

Washingtonians are encouraged to start with five simple actions:

• Know Your Risk: Learn about the hazards that can affect the District and consider how they could affect you, your household, and your neighborhood.

• Make a Plan: Know how you will communicate, where you will meet, and what you will do if you need to evacuate or stay home during an emergency. Include the needs of children, older adults, pets, and anyone who may need additional assistance.

• Have Supplies: Keep the essentials you may need if normal services are disrupted. Start with what you already have and add supplies over time, including medications, water, food, flashlights, chargers, and copies of important information.

• Stay Informed: Sign up for AlertDC at alert.dc.gov to receive emergency alerts and important information from District public safety officials, and know where you will turn for trusted information during an emergency.

• Look Out for Each Other: Prepared communities are connected communities. Get to know your neighbors, talk about how you can help one another, and check on people who may need additional support before, during, and after an emergency.

Preparedness looks different for every household and residents do not need to accomplish everything at once. Throughout DC Preparedness Month, ReadyDC will highlight different ways Washingtonians can prepare, including understanding common hazards in the District, making household emergency plans, staying informed when conditions change, building emergency supplies over time, and strengthening connections with neighbors and community.

For preparedness information and resources, visit ready.dc.gov. To receive emergency alerts and notifications from District public safety officials, sign up for AlertDC at alert.dc.gov.

As the coordinating agency for the District's emergency management and homeland security initiatives, HSEMA administers the ReadyDC campaign on behalf of Mayor Muriel Bowser. ReadyDC provides residents, businesses, and communities across the District with information and resources to prepare for emergencies and strengthen community resilience.