Preparedness Starts at Home During National Preparedness Month

September is National Preparedness Month, and the National Weather Service wants to be sure you're ready in the event of severe weather.

Why National Preparedness Month Matters

There is some pretty significant activity in the Tropics today, and the National Weather Service has taken the opportunity to remind us that "Preparedness Starts at Home." This means making sure that you have a plan and supplies in place before a weather emergency occurs.

Steps to Build a Family Severe Weather Plan

The National Weather Service recommends that you start preparing now. Have supplies at the ready, have a communication plan for your family, and know where to go to seek safety when severe weather strikes.

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How to Receive Weather Alerts

They also recommend checking to ensure your phone is set up to receive Weather Emergency Alerts (WEAs). It's best to have a secondary way to receive severe weather alerts, like a NOAA weather radio, to ensure you are able to stay informed.

Having a plan in place and knowing where to go is imperative. When warnings are issued, you may only have a brief window of time, sometimes even only seconds, to get to safety.

Emergency Kit Essentials for Families and Pets

To help you and your family stay safe, we've compiled a list of safety tips, as well as essentials to keep in your emergency preparedness kit. Keep reading to also find important first aid tips if you have pets.

Be Prepared: Essential Tornado Safety Tips to Protect Your Family and Pets

When a tornado warning is issued, seconds count. That's why it is so incredibly important to be prepared. We've put together a guide to help you be ready when severe weather strikes.

Gallery Credit: Kat Mykals

Essential Items To Build Your Emergency Preparedness Kit

When severe weather or some other emergency strikes, being prepared can make all the difference for you and your family. We have put together a list of essential items to help you build an emergency preparedness kit for you and your family.

Gallery Credit: Kat Mykals

Important Pet First Aid Tips to Be Prepared

Being a pet owner is a big responsibility and a lifelong commitment. Unfortunately, accidents happen, and you need to be able to properly care for your pet in an emergency. Keep reading to learn some ways you can be prepared. Of course, don't forget to contact your veterinarian too.

Gallery Credit: Kat Mykals

Source: Weather Experts Urge Families to Prepare Before Severe Storms Strike