September is National Preparedness Month

BOSTON - September 1, 2016 - Mayor Martin J. Walsh today alerted residents that September is recognized as National Preparedness Month. Sponsored by the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) within the Department of Homeland Security, National Preparedness Month encourages Americans to take steps to prepare for emergencies in their homes, businesses, schools and communities.

"National Preparedness Month provides the ideal opportunity for residents to evaluate individual and family plans in the event of an emergency," said Mayor Walsh. "Resident safety in the City of Boston is non-negotiable and the City encourages all residents to take simple, preventative steps to ensure their safety and preparedness."

The Mayor's Office of Emergency Management (OEM) recommends the following measures for National Preparedness Month:

Make a Plan

Your family might not be together if a disaster strikes, so take the time to coordinate beforehand:

• Create and practice a family communications plan in case you are separated during an emergency.
• Select a family meeting spot where everyone can go in case you are separated.
• Figure out where the closest emergency shelter is in your neighborhood.

Make a Kit

An emergency supply kit should have basic items that household members need during a disaster. This kit can be used if you have to leave your home during an emergency or extended power outage. OEM recommends you include:

• Water: one gallon of water per person per day for at least three days
• Food: at least a three-day supply of non-perishable food
• Can opener
• First aid kit
• Battery-powered or hand cranked radio
• Flashlight with extra batteries
• Moist towelettes and garbage bags for personal sanitation
• Dust mask to help filter contaminated air
• Wrench or pliers to turn off utilities
• Supplies for your pets, like water and food, as well as an extra leash and collar

Stay Informed

Reliable and accurate information is essential before, during and after an emergency. Be prepared and connect to the following resources:

• Visit and enroll in AlertBoston to receive emergency notifications via phone, text, or e-mail. Get notified in English, Spanish, French, or Chinese (Hong Kong dialect).
• Follow OEM on Facebook and Twitter @ReadyBoston for emergency updates.

OEM is the agency responsible for ensuring the City of Boston has plans to prevent, protect against, respond to, and recover from all types of emergencies and disasters. During emergencies, OEM operates the Emergency Operation Center (EOC) where City agencies gather to share critical information, respond to resource requests and coordinate response for managing an incident.