When Is National Preparedness Month?

By Nate Baker

National Preparedness Month is observed every September in the United States. It’s a nationwide effort to encourage individuals, families, and communities to plan ahead for emergencies and disasters before they happen.

emergency workers going into a disaster area to help victims

You may also hear it referred to as disaster preparedness month or emergency preparedness month—all of these terms point to the same annual initiative focused on readiness and resilience.

What Is National Preparedness Month?

National preparedness month is designed to raise awareness about the importance of being prepared for disasters, both natural and man-made. The goal is simple: reduce panic, confusion, and risk by planning ahead.

Preparedness typically includes:

  • Having emergency supplies (especially water and food)
  • Creating a family emergency plan
  • Understanding local risks
  • Knowing evacuation routes and shelter options

If you’ve ever wondered when is emergency preparedness month or when is national preparedness month, the answer is September—every year.

Why September?

September was chosen because it aligns with several major seasonal risks and planning habits, including:

  • Peak hurricane season
  • Wildfire season in many states
  • Back-to-school timing, when families are already organizing and planning

It’s a strategic reminder to prepare before disasters escalate in the fall and winter months.

Regional Preparedness: What to Plan For Where You Live

Different parts of the U.S. face very different risks. National preparedness month encourages planning for your specific region, not just generic emergencies.

Northeast & Mid-Atlantic

Common risks:

  • Winter storms and blizzards
  • Hurricanes and coastal flooding
  • Power outages

Preparedness focus:

  • Long-term water storage
  • Backup heating plans
  • Non-perishable food and flashlights

Southeast & Gulf Coast

Common risks:

  • Hurricanes
  • Flooding
  • Tornadoes

Preparedness focus:

  • Evacuation planning
  • Portable water storage
  • Storm-resistant emergency kits

Midwest & Great Plains

Common risks:

  • Tornadoes
  • Severe thunderstorms
  • Extreme cold and ice storms

Preparedness focus:

  • Basement or shelter readiness
  • Emergency water for shelter-in-place scenarios
  • Battery-powered weather radios

Southwest

Common risks:

  • Extreme heat
  • Drought
  • Wildfires

Preparedness focus:

  • Large-capacity water storage
  • Evacuation readiness
  • Smoke and air-quality protection

West Coast

Common risks:

  • Earthquakes
  • Wildfires
  • Landslides

Preparedness focus:

  • Water storage that doesn’t rely on utilities
  • Grab-and-go emergency supplies
  • Securing heavy household items

Mountain States & Northern Plains

Common risks:

  • Heavy snowfall
  • Avalanches
  • Isolation due to road closures

Preparedness focus:

  • Extended water and food supplies
  • Heating contingencies
  • Medical and communication planning

Why Water Storage Matters During National Preparedness Month

Across all regions, one preparedness constant remains the same: access to clean water. In most disasters, water systems are among the first services disrupted.

infographic depicting you should plan for 14 days of water and 2-3 gallons per person for emergency water storage

Emergency guidelines commonly recommend:

  • At least one gallon of water per person per day
  • A minimum 3–7 day supply, more in disaster-prone areas.

We recommend going the extra mile at 2-3 gallons per person for 14 days, at least. Any one of our water storage tanks would be a great option. What makes our tanks stand out is the quality and convenience in combination with the affordability:

National preparedness month is the ideal time to evaluate whether your household can meet that need.

Final Takeaway

If you’re asking:

  • when is national preparedness month → September
  • when is emergency preparedness month → September
  • disaster preparedness month → a reminder to plan now so emergencies don’t become catastrophes later

National Preparedness Month is your annual reminder that preparedness isn’t fear-based—it’s practical, responsible, and empowering. Preparing today can make all the difference tomorrow.

FAQ: National Preparedness Month

When is National Preparedness Month?

It happens every September in the United States. 

Is National Preparedness Month the same as disaster preparedness month?

Yes. 

What are the most important supplies to have ready?

Start with basics that cover the first 72 hours, then expand from there. Common essentials include:

  • Drinking water and a way to store it safely
  • Non-perishable food
  • Flashlights and extra batteries
  • First-aid kit and prescription medications
  • Phone chargers (including battery banks)
  • Sanitation supplies
  • Cash and copies of important documents

What’s a simple emergency plan every household should have?

At minimum, have:

  • A meeting place (local and out-of-area option)
  • An out-of-state contact everyone can call or text
  • A go-bag for quick evacuation
  • A plan for pets and any medical needs
  • A way to receive alerts (Wireless Emergency Alerts, weather radio, local apps)

Should I have both a “stay home” kit and an evacuation kit?

Yes—many emergencies require sheltering in place (power outages, winter storms), while others may require leaving quickly (wildfires, hurricanes). A home supply kit plus a smaller grab-and-go kit covers both scenarios.

If you want to help with Disaster Relief funds, there are all kinds of charities for that.

Other helpful resources:

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