National Prepareathon! Day
National Prepareathon! Day is a small but real reason to pause, notice, and celebrate — together if we can.
Why it matters
PREPARE TOGETHER
Preparedness is a community effort—make a plan with friends and neighbors.
THE STORY
National Prepareathon! Day, celebrated on April 30, invites individuals, families, and communities to take proactive steps towards disaster preparedness. The observance, established by the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) in 2014, emphasizes the importance of being ready for unexpected emergencies, ranging from natural disasters to personal crises.
Over the years, the day has gained momentum as more people recognize the need for emergency readiness. Statistics reveal that more than 60% of Americans do not have a family emergency plan, highlighting a critical gap in preparedness. National Prepareathon! Day serves as a crucial reminder to bridge this gap through education and proactive engagement.
Communities across the United States are encouraged to host events, workshops, and drills to foster a culture of preparedness. Local organizations and agencies often collaborate to offer resources, training, and support to help individuals and families develop their emergency plans.
As we observe National Prepareathon! Day, it is essential to reflect on our personal and community readiness. By taking simple steps—like creating emergency kits, mapping evacuation routes, and discussing plans with loved ones—we can build resilient communities that are better prepared to face any emergency.
Preparedness is the key to resilience.
WORTH KNOWING
Emergency Kits
Ensure your emergency kit includes food, water, and first aid supplies.
Evacuation Plans
Map out evacuation routes for your family.
Communication
Establish an out-of-area contact for emergencies.
Home Safety
Secure your home against potential hazards.
AROUND THE WORLD
DID YOU KNOW?!
FEMA's Role
FEMA leads national efforts for disaster response and preparedness.
Historical Disasters
The U.S. has faced numerous significant disasters, prompting preparedness initiatives.
Community Focus
Community engagement is crucial for effective emergency preparedness.
Global Preparedness
Many countries celebrate similar days to promote disaster readiness.
Emergency Drills
Practicing emergency drills can save lives during actual events.
Preparedness Resources
FEMA offers extensive resources for individuals and communities.
Youth Involvement
Involving youth in preparedness training fosters lifelong safety habits.
READ MORE
The Disaster Preparedness Handbook
by Arthur T. O'Neill
A comprehensive guide to preparing for various emergencies.
Prepare Your Family for Emergencies
by Michael R. Phelan
Strategies for creating family emergency plans.
Community Preparedness: A Guide
by Patricia A. Dyer
Insights on building resilient communities.
Survival Poaching: The Ultimate Guide
by Sandra K. Ellis
Essential skills for survival in emergencies.
PAIR IT WITH
Stay updated on local hazards.
Gather essential emergency supplies.
Share knowledge and resources.
Work together to enhance preparedness.
Spread the Word
Encourage your friends and family to prepare for emergencies this National Prepareathon! Day.
How to celebrate
Small, doable ways to celebrate National Prepareathon! Day.
- Do one small thing that makes the day feel marked.
- Tell someone what you're celebrating and why.
- Share a post, a photo, or a memory connected to it.
- Make a tiny tradition — something you could do again next year.
- Let it be simple. Not every celebration has to be a production.
Celebration ideas by audience
For families
Do one small thing together that everyone will remember.
For kids
Turn it into a craft, a story, or a snack — meet them where they are.
For couples
Use the day as an excuse for a little intentional time together.
At the office
Acknowledge the day in the team chat or at a stand-up. Small, sincere, fast.
At school
Anchor a short lesson or activity around the day.
In your community
Share, volunteer, or donate to make the day mean something locally.
On your own
Celebrate quietly and completely. One person can still mark a day.