National Preparedness Day

Cheerful family gathered around an emergency kit, wearing matching safety gear, suburban neighborhood scene with a hint of calming nature in the background.. — National preparedness day illustration

Hey there, fellow internet explorer! Are you ready to dive into the wonderful world of National Preparedness Day? Grab your emergency kit and let's get started!

When is Preparedness Day?

It's national preparedness day on the 30th September.

What is National Preparedness Day?

Every year on National Preparedness Day, we take a moment to pause and reflect on the importance of being prepared for any emergency that may come our way. Whether it's a natural disaster like a tornado or hurricane, or a sudden zombie apocalypse (hey, you never know!), it's crucial to have a plan in place.

So, what can you do to be prepared? First and foremost, put together an emergency kit! This should include essential items like water, non-perishable foods, a first aid kit, flashlights, batteries, and a portable radio. Don't forget to include important documents, like copies of your ID, insurance policies, and emergency contact information.

Next, make sure you have a communication plan in place. Discuss with your loved ones how you will stay in touch in case of an emergency. It's also a good idea to have a designated meeting point if you get separated.

Lastly, educate yourself on the potential risks in your area and take steps to mitigate them. This could involve securing your home against burglaries, making sure your property is properly insured, or even taking a self-defense class to protect yourself.

Fun Fact

Did you know that National Preparedness Day was first observed on September 30th, 2015? It's true! People all around the country came together to raise awareness about the importance of being prepared. And they didn't just stock up on canned beans and duct tape — they also shared valuable information on emergency preparedness through social media and community events!

So, mark your calendar for National Preparedness Day and take the time to prepare yourself for the unexpected. Remember, being prepared is not just about surviving, it's about coming out on top and defeating those pesky zombies!

History behind the term 'Preparedness'

1941

The Dawn of Preparedness

The term 'preparedness' first gained prominence in 1941 when the United States entered World War II. With the outbreak of the war, the government emphasized the need for citizens to be prepared for any eventuality, such as air raids, blackouts, and rationing. Preparedness became a buzzword, urging individuals and communities to take necessary steps for self-sufficiency and resilience.

1950

Civil Defense and Preparedness

During the early 1950s, in the midst of the Cold War between the United States and the Soviet Union, the term 'preparedness' gained further significance with the establishment of civil defense programs. The threat of nuclear war heightened the sense of urgency for preparedness among citizens. Civil defense campaigns encouraged individuals to build bomb shelters, stockpile emergency supplies, and develop evacuation plans.

1961

Presidential Directive for Preparedness

In 1961, President John F. Kennedy emphasized the importance of preparedness by issuing Presidential Directive 57, which aimed to strengthen the nation's capabilities to respond to any type of emergency. This directive laid the foundation for the establishment of emergency preparedness agencies and the development of comprehensive plans to address natural disasters, technological hazards, and national security threats.

1979

The Year of Disaster Preparedness

The term 'preparedness' reached a new height of awareness in 1979 when the United Nations designated it as the International Year of Disaster Preparedness. This global initiative aimed to raise awareness about the importance of preparedness in reducing the impact of natural disasters. The year saw various international conferences, campaigns, and educational programs focused on building resilience in communities worldwide.

2001

Terrorism and Homeland Security Preparedness

The tragic events of September 11, 2001, marked a turning point in the concept of preparedness. The term took on a broader meaning as governments and organizations recognized the need to be prepared for terrorist attacks. National security became a top priority, leading to the establishment of the Department of Homeland Security in the United States and the development of extensive preparedness and response plans worldwide.