Preparedness Starts at Home: Johnson County Marks National Preparedness Month

September is National Preparedness Month, and this year's theme, Preparedness Starts at Home, encourages everyone to take simple, effective steps to keep their families safe before disasters strike.

Johnson County Emergency Management reminds residents that disasters can happen anytime, anywhere, and being ready can make all the difference. Preparedness doesn't have to be expensive or complicated, small actions taken now can save lives, reduce stress, and protect property later.

"This year's theme is about getting back to the basics of preparedness," said Elise Hayes, Assistant Director of Community Preparedness for Johnson County Emergency Management. "When families know their risks, make a plan, build a kit, and get involved, they're better equipped to handle any emergency."

FEMA identifies four essential steps for preparedness:

1. Know Your Risk - Learn what hazards are most likely to affect your community.
2. Make a Family Emergency Plan - Decide how your family will communicate, where you will meet, and what to do if separated.
3. Build an Emergency Supply Kit - Gather food, water, medicine, and essential supplies, including a go-bag for quick evacuations.
4. Get Involved - Participate in local training, join a Community Emergency Response Team (CERT), or learn first aid and CPR.

As part of National Preparedness Month, Johnson County Emergency Management also highlights its Partners in Preparedness (PIP) program, which recognizes businesses, schools, faith-based organizations, and community groups who build resilience. PIP highlights and recognizes organizations for their efforts in strengthening preparedness through planning, training and outreach.

"Preparedness is a shared responsibility," Hayes said. "Our Partners in Preparedness program recognizes organizations who are proactive and ensure that preparedness starts at home, at work, in schools, and across our community."

To learn more about how to prepare and to access free tools and resources, visit ready.gov.

To explore how your organization can join Partners in Preparedness, visit jocogov.org/pip.