Ohio Preparedness Month Encourages Families to Prepare for Emergencies

Columbus, Ohio – September is officially designated as Ohio Preparedness Month by the State of Ohio and coordinated by the Ohio Emergency Management Agency (Ohio EMA).  Ohio Preparedness Month (OPM) is a campaign aimed at enhancing public awareness and providing education regarding essential strategies for effectively preparing for emergencies, disasters, or unforeseen circumstances that may arise.

“The goal of Ohio Preparedness Month is to encourage families across our state to stay informed, stay connected, and take simple steps that can help them be prepared for emergencies,” said Ohio EMA Executive Director Sima Merick. “Building awareness within your household is one of the most effective ways to keep your loved ones safe.”

Throughout Ohio Preparedness Month, the focus on family preparedness gives residents the opportunity to think about their families’ specific needs and how to best prepare.

The 2026 OPM theme is “Prepare Your Family,” which aims to encourage Ohioans to take steps now to help their family and households be prepared in the event of an emergency or disaster.

• Week 1 (September 1-5): Preparedness Kits for the Family
• Week 2 (September 6-12): Plan for your Family
• Week 3 (September 13-19): Family Communication
• Week 4 (September 20-26): Youth Preparedness
• Week 5 (September 27-30): Pet Preparedness

To learn more about Ohio Preparedness Month, and to view Governor Mike DeWine’s National Preparedness Month Proclamation, click HERE.

For more preparedness tips, follow along on Ohio EMA’s social media at  EMA Facebook and  EMA Twitter.