Rep. Neguse Announces September is National Preparedness Month

The 2022 National Preparedness Month theme is: “A Lasting Legacy.”

Lafayette, CO — Today, Congressman Joe Neguse announced the start of National Preparedness Month. Observed each September, Rep. Neguse serves as one of FEMA’s 2022 National Preparedness Month Congressional Co-Chairs. Disasters can strike anywhere, and National Preparedness Month raises awareness of the importance of preparing for the types of natural and manmade disasters that could affect American families at any time, sometimes with little notice. 

“From the Cameron Peak, East Troublesome, and Marshall Fires to the historic floods in 2013, communities in Colorado’s 2nd District have unfortunately been an epicenter for disasters and emergencies. For the safety of our families and communities, it is imperative that we act decisively to prepare for any future threats. I am proud to partner with FEMA in honoring September as this year’s National Preparedness Month. Through increased investments in community programming and the expansion of educational and social resources, we can better equip Americans to reduce the threats of these disasters. Being prepared reduces fear and promotes safer roadways to recovery,” said Congressman Joe Neguse, National Preparedness Month Congressional Co-Chair.

In collaboration with the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA), Congressional Co-Chairs are encouraging families to take time this month to increase their level of emergency preparedness. The best way to help communities recover from a disaster is by taking steps now to prepare before disaster strikes.

Here are some ways folks can prepare:

• Download the updated FEMA App to receive real-time alerts from the National Weather Service for up to five locations nationwide and have preparedness tips with you at all times to keep you and your loved ones safe.
• Make being prepared a family affair. Visit Ready.gov/plan and Listo.gov/haga-un-plan to find information on how to make an emergency plan, prepare a supply kit, and take low-cost, no-cost steps to prepare.
• Keep your plan and emergency contact information with you wherever you go by filling out the new digital emergency communications plan. 
  • Share your plan with close friends and family and encourage them to create their own plan.

Background

Representative Neguse has long been a champion for increased disaster preparedness. He serves as a Co-Chair of both the Bipartisan Disaster Preparedness & Recovery Caucus and the Bipartisan Wildfire Caucus. Rep. Neguse has emerged as a leader amongst his colleagues in the fight for increased federal support for communities recovering from disaster. Most recently, the Colorado Congressman secured the passage of his Wildfire Response and Drought Resiliency Act, H.R. 5118, through the House. H.R. 5118 is a monumental legislative package that would significantly increase investments to tackle wildfires, boost wildland firefighter pay, and fund resiliency and mitigation projects for communities impacted by recent climate-induced disasters. 

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