
“Prepare” by Photo Monkey is licensed under CC BY 2.0.
“The future belongs to those who prepare for it” — Ralph Waldo Emerson
In the United States, the month of September is widely known as National Preparedness Month. National Preparedness Month (NPM) was officially launched in 2004 and is sponsored by the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) within the Department of Homeland Security. However, its origin can be traced back to the tragic events and aftermath of September 11, 2001 (911).
After 911, FEMA recognized the increased need for emergency preparedness and proceeded with formalizing a national campaign. For over two decades, this annual campaign has focused on raising awareness about the importance of planning for emergencies or disasters in our homes, businesses, and communities. The 2025 theme for NPM is “Preparedness Starts at Home”.
National disasters can be geological in nature such as earthquakes, landslides or volcanic eruptions. However, disasters can also involve harsh weather conditions or even terrorist acts. Yet, despite our efforts to earnestly prepare for unexpected emergencies and disasters, some hardships and disappointments in our lives are simply unavoidable.
On Morning Energy we are going to spend time exploring the importance of being prepared as it relates to so many different areas of our lives.