As Floridians, we know the beauty of our state comes with a unique set of risks — hurricanes, tornadoes, flooding, wildfires, and severe storms can strike with little warning. That’s why this September, during Florida Preparedness Month, the Florida Division of Emergency Management is encouraging all residents and visitors to take time to plan, prepare, and protect what matters most.

Being prepared doesn’t just bring peace of mind — it can save lives. Whether you’re a homeowner, business owner, parent, senior, or someone new to the Sunshine State, there’s no better time than now to make sure you’re ready for the unexpected.

Why Prepare?

  • Emergencies often happen with little or no warning.

  • A solid plan helps protect lives, property, and livelihoods.

  • Businesses that plan ahead recover faster.

  • Knowing your risks and being ready helps reduce fear, confusion, and panic during a disaster.

What You Can Do During Florida Preparedness Month

  1. Know Your Hazards
    Visit FloridaDisaster.org/PlanPrepare to learn about the risks in your area — from hurricanes and flooding to wildfires and extreme heat.

  2. Know Your Zone, Know Your Home

    • Find out if you live in a storm surge evacuation zone.

    • Evaluate how strong your home is — can it withstand hurricane-force winds?

  3. Build a Disaster Supply Kit

    • Stock up on essentials for at least 7 days: water, food, medications, batteries, cash, important documents, and supplies for pets and infants.

    • Use the Florida Disaster Supply Kit Checklist to get started.

  4. Prepare Important Documents

    • Store copies of IDs, insurance policies, prescriptions, and deeds in waterproof containers or digitally in a secure location.

  5. Sign Up for Alerts & Resources

    • Register for emergency weather alerts.

    • If you or someone you know needs assistance during an evacuation, sign up for the Special Needs Shelter Registry through your county’s emergency management office.

Personalize Your Plan

Florida Preparedness Month is a reminder that preparedness isn’t one-size-fits-all. Tailor your emergency plan to meet your needs:

  • For families: Create a communication and evacuation plan. Assign roles and choose meeting spots.

  • For businesses: Create a continuity plan to protect your staff and assets.

  • For people with access and functional needs: Consider medication, transportation, and caregiver assistance in your planning.

  • For pet owners: Pack extra food, leashes, carriers, and vaccination records for your furry family members.

  • For manufactured home residents: Know where you’ll go if an evacuation is issued — these structures are not safe in high winds.

Why Now?

September marks the peak of hurricane season, making it the perfect time to act. Florida Preparedness Month aligns with National Preparedness Month, creating a statewide push for readiness before disasters strike.

Tools to Help You Prepare

  • Disaster Supply Kit Checklist

  • “Know Your Zone” Evacuation Map

  • Special Needs Registry

  • Local Emergency Contacts

  • Business Continuity Planning Tools

All available at FloridaDisaster.org/PlanPrepare

Final Reminder

Florida Preparedness Month is more than a campaign — it’s a call to action. Start small if you must: build a kit, talk to your family, sign up for alerts. The most important thing is to take that first step toward being ready.

Because when disaster strikes, it’s too late to prepare.
This September — Be Ready. Be Safe. Be Florida Strong.