September is National Preparedness Month. Bismarck Emergency Management and Bismarck-Burleigh Public Health remind you to take steps to prepare yourself and family members for disasters and emergencies. National Preparedness Month is held each September to encourage Americans to take simple steps to be prepared for emergencies in their homes, businesses and communities. This year’s theme is “Don’t Wait, Communicate. Make Your Emergency Plan Today.”

• BE INFORMED about emergencies likely in your area. Sign up for local text alerts and warnings. Enroll in CodeRed community notification and add weather apps to your smartphone.

• MAKE A PLAN and practice your emergency response plan with all occupants of your home or business. Ensure that all are not only aware of the plan, but have sought appropriate training regarding evacuation and other actions identified in their plan. Collect important documents and keep them in a safe place. This will help you evacuate without delay and get back on track after the disaster passes.

• BUILD A KIT or have supplies on hand that you’ll need to live independently for several days. Include food, water, and medicine for your family and pets.

• TAKE ACTION and help others prepare in your community. Plan with neighbors or volunteer at a community service organization like the Red Cross.

According to a recent Federal Emergency Management Agency survey, nearly 60 percent of surveyed American adults have not practiced what to do in a disaster by participating in a disaster drill or preparedness at work, school or home in the past year. In addition, less than half of respondents have developed an emergency plan and discussed it with their household. “Don’t Wait, Communicate. Make your Emergency Plan Today.”

For more information please visit www.bismarcknd.gov/emergencymanagement or call 701-222-6727. Visit Bismarck-Burleigh Public Health Emergency Preparedness, or call 701-355-1540.