Wayne & Wanda Stand Ready for National Preparedness Month

Published on September 08, 2026

Beep. Beep. Beep.

Wayne the Weather Radio: “Attention! Attention! This is a test of the Wayne-and-Wanda preparedness network.”

September is National Preparedness Month, and this year’s theme is “Americans Stand Ready.” That means preparing ourselves, protecting the people we love, and helping our community recover when emergencies happen.

Wayne: “First, Americans stand ready to uphold our patriotic duty. When households are prepared and self-reliant, first responders can focus on people facing the most urgent needs.”

Wanda: “In other words: your firefighters, EMS crews, law enforcement officers, dispatchers, and emergency managers are there to help—but a little preparation at home makes a big difference.”

Start simple:

• Build an emergency kit with water, nonperishable food, medications, flashlights, batteries, chargers, and supplies for pets.
• Make a family communications plan: know how to reach one another and where to meet if you are separated.
• Sign up for local alerts and keep a NOAA Weather Radio ready for severe weather.
• Know at least two ways to receive warnings—because phones need power, and power sometimes takes a vacation.

Wayne: “Americans also stand ready to protect family and friends. You know your loved ones best: who may need medication, mobility assistance, extra time to evacuate, or a reassuring phone call.”

Wanda: “Check in with neighbors, too—especially older adults, people with disabilities, and anyone new to the area. Preparedness is better when shared.”

Finally, Americans stand ready to help our communities. Learn local hazards, follow guidance from public safety officials, volunteer when appropriate, and connect with your local emergency management office. Community preparedness is not about expecting the worst—it is about making sure we are ready to handle it together.

Wayne: “So, Wanda, are people supposed to panic?”

Wanda: “Absolutely not. They should make a plan, build a kit, stay informed, and get involved.”

Wayne: “Excellent. I already made my plan.”

Wanda: “Let me guess—stay plugged in?”

Wayne: “Naturally.”

This September, take one preparedness step. Then take another. When Americans stand ready, our families, first responders, and communities are stronger.