National Preparedness Month 2024

National Preparedness Month (NPM) is recognized each September to raise awareness about the importance of preparing for disasters, natural hazards or man-made emergencies, that could happen at any time. Aligning with the annual Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) Ready Campaign, our messaging and outreach will serve as a critical reminder to all Tennesseans that we need to be ready year-round to protect our homes and communities.

This September, Tennessee Emergency Management Agency (TEMA) will have a special emphasis on enhancing emergency preparedness for the deaf, hard of hearing, blind, and low vision communities. This initiative underscores the Volunteer State’s commitment to ensuring that all Tennesseans have the tools and resources necessary to stay safe and informed during emergencies and disasters.

We encourage all Tennesseans to:

  • Know Your Risk: Disasters can happen without warning. No matter where you live in Tennessee, it’s important to learn about the potential hazards near you and how to receive emergency alerts.
  • Make a Plan:  Your family may not be together when a disaster happens. The best way to keep everyone safe is to make an emergency plan ahead of time. Talk to your family, friends, and loved ones about how you will communicate before, during, and after a disaster. 
  • Get Tech Ready: Technology has made it easier than ever to prepare for emergencies, but it can be unreliable in an emergency if you haven’t kept your gadgets protected and powered up.
  • Build a Kit:  After an emergency, you may not be able to receive immediate help. Build a kit with the essentials your family and pets will need if you must shelter in place or evacuate. 
    • In addition to having basic survival supplies, an emergency go-kit should contain items to meet individual needs in various emergencies. Consider items you use daily and add those items to your go-kit. Keep in mind, you may not have access to things in your community for several days. 
  • Stay Informed: When emergencies happen, public safety officials use timely and reliable systems to alert you, but that is not the only time you should turn to your local organizations for emergency preparedness. When the skies are blue, stay connected with your local first responders, municipality, and other resources available to stay up-to-date on weather impacts.