2023 Theme: Take Control in 1, 2, 3

National Preparedness Month is an observance each September to raise awareness about the importance of preparing for disasters and emergencies that could happen at any time. 

The Ready Campaign’s 2023 National Preparedness Month theme is “Take Control in 1, 2, 3”. The campaign will focus on preparing older adults for disasters, specifically older adults from communities that are disproportionally impacted by the all-hazard events, which continue to threaten the nation.

We know older adults can face greater risks when it comes to the multitude of extreme weather events and emergencies we now face, especially if they are living alone, are low-income, have a disability, or live in rural areas.

Emergency managers and all those who work with and support older adult communities to access the new webpage available in English and Spanish languages at Ready.gov/older-adults and Ready.gov/es/adultos-mayores. For more information on preparing with disabilities visit Ready.gov/disability or Ready.gov/es/discapacidad in Spanish.

Older adults may need additional support before, during, or after disasters. 

• Make sure to include your neighbors’ contact information in your emergency plan. 
• #TakeControl123: Ask them for help with building an emergency kit, evacuation transportation, or your specific needs. 

Older adults with disabilities may need extra help during and after an emergency. Consider these tips to keep them safe: 

• Have a contact list of your support network on their phone. 
• Put medical alert tags or bracelets on them.  
• Add medical information to their electronic devices. 
• More: ready.gov/disability 
  #NPM2023 

Keep older adults prepared for any disaster emergency! 

• Have multiple ways to receive alerts before, during, and after disasters. If you don’t have internet, teach your family how to use a radio with batteries for updates from local officials. 
• ready.gov/alerts 
  #NPM2023 

Protect older adult’s finances by helping them review their insurance policy every year. Make sure their insurance policy covers hurricane-related hazards like flooding and high winds. 

• If you have questions, talk to an agent or visit: floodsmart.gov. 
  #NPM2023 

Questions to keep in mind if you live with an older adult: 

1. Do they use essential medical devices? 
2. How would you evacuate with those devices in an emergency? 
3. Do you have an alternate plan for refrigerating medicines if you lose power? 
   #NPM2023 #TakeControl123 

Do you take care of an older adult? Make sure they are ready in case of an emergency: 

1. Have a copy of their house key. 
2. Know where they keep emergency supplies. 
3. Learn how to use lifesaving equipment and administer medicine 
   #NPM2023 

Are older adults in your life ready to evacuate if needed? 

1. Have a transportation plan in case they don’t have a car or driver’s license. 
2. Take medical equipment into consideration. 
3. Keep in mind unique difficulties 
   #NPM2023