National Preparedness Month 2026: Proactive Steps for Every Home

2026 has seen a convergence of risks: escalating climate-driven disasters, a strained and aging power grid, fragile supply chains, and increasing cyber threats to infrastructure. Recent analyses show that fewer than half of American households have a basic emergency supply kit, leaving the majority at heightened risk of disruption or harm should disaster strike. Local threats will vary, but everyone—urban or rural—faces the ripple effects of grid failures, delayed resupplies, or sudden evacuation orders. This year’s National Preparedness Month campaign is a clear signal: readiness is no longer optional, but essential. FEMA urges every family to understand local hazards, monitor real-time alerts, and actively rehearse what to do when the unexpected hits. Knowledge and forethought remain your best defenses.

Start with an actionable family emergency plan. Identify likely hazards in your region—floods, wildfires, hurricanes—and set clear meeting points, evacuation routes, and a communication plan (including an out-of-area contact). Practice this plan regularly. Ensure everyone in your household knows when and how to shelter in place, evacuate, and signal for help. Sign up for local alerts and download the updated FEMA App, which now includes personalized preparedness advice and real-time weather/emergency notifications tailored to your location. Take time this week to walk through your home and car kits, update your plans if needed, and engage your children or dependents in practice drills. Proactive steps now reduce confusion and maximize safety later.

At minimum, your emergency kit should include: two weeks’ supply of water (1 gallon/person/day), nonperishable food (2,000–2,500 calories/adult/day), backup power for 7–14 days (solar chargers, batteries, or generators), a comprehensive first aid kit with at least 7 days of prescription medications, and a 72-hour 'go bag' for each household member (at 15–20% of body weight for comfort and mobility). Add waterproof copies of essential documents, $200–500 in small bills, basic hygiene supplies, sturdy clothing, and flashlights. Rotate out expiring items and test devices quarterly. Remember pet and infant needs. If you have special medical or dietary requirements, maintain a redundant supply buffer. Prioritize mobility and reliability over abundance—choose quality, lightweight gear you can move with under stress.

Monitor FEMA’s alerts via the FEMA App and NOAA weather radio, particularly during National Preparedness Month when outreach and real-time information ramp up. Utilize FEMA’s updated hazard maps to identify emerging risks in your area and update your plan accordingly. Track news about local power grid stress, fuel shortages, or evacuation drills—these often precede larger disruptions. Pay close attention to regional trends: persistent heat, wildfire warnings, or infrastructure incidents (like cyberattacks on utilities) are clear signals to heighten readiness. Evaluate and respond to your own supply shelf and gear status—don’t wait for a warning to find your kit incomplete. Above all, keep communication open with family and neighbors: shared awareness multiplies safety.