News  Governor Healey Proclaims September as ‘Emergency Preparedness Month’

FRAMINGHAM — To encourage planning for disasters and other types of emergencies, Governor Maura Healey has declared September 2026 as Emergency Preparedness Month, and encourages residents, businesses and communities to take simple steps to prepare for disasters and other emergencies. 

Throughout September, the Massachusetts Emergency Management Agency (MEMA), the Massachusetts Department of Public Health (DPH), and other state, local, and nonprofit partners will share preparedness guidance as part of a month-long national campaign. 

“Emergencies can happen anywhere and at any time. We saw that during February’s historic blizzard, when record snowfall and widespread power outages disrupted communities across Massachusetts, especially in Southeastern Massachusetts,” said Governor Maura Healey. “A few simple steps – making a plan, building a kit and knowing where to find reliable information – can make a real difference. We’re encouraging everyone to take some time this month to get prepared.” 

 “Our first responders and public safety professionals work every day to prepare for emergencies and keep our communities safe. All of us have a role to play, too,” said Lieutenant Governor Kim Driscoll. “Talk with your family about what you would do, put together an emergency kit and check in on neighbors who may need extra help. These simple steps can make a big difference when an emergency happens.” 

“In addition to taking time to ensure you’re as ready as you can be for a potential disaster, Emergency Preparedness Month is also an important time to recognize our public safety workers who are focused year-round on planning for and responding to hazards and threats,” said Public Safety and Security Secretary Gina Kwon. “They deserve our thanks for keeping us safe.” 

“Keeping your loved ones and pets safe in a crisis doesn't require a large budget or lots of free time," said MEMA Director Dawn Brantley. "A strong family emergency plan doesn't take long to create, and by gathering items you already have around the house, you can get a good start on an emergency kit. This Emergency Preparedness Month is the perfect time to get started." 

“Emergency preparedness is an essential part of public health and for protecting your own health,” said DPH Commissioner Robbie Goldstein, MD, PhD. “From infectious diseases and extreme weather to natural disasters and human-made threats, emergencies can have serious health impacts. Taking steps to prepare now can help protect you, your loved ones, and your neighbors when an emergency happens. A prepared community is a resilient community.” 

Throughout September, MEMA will share information about emergency preparedness topics, including emergency planning such as building an emergency kit, preparing for disasters, youth preparedness, and ways to get involved in community preparedness. MEMA will also take part in events across Massachusetts, including the Worcester Red Sox game at Polar Park on September 19. 

On September 9-10, MEMA’s Northeast Emergency Management Training and Education Center will host the New England Preparedness Summit at the DCU Center in Worcester. The summit will bring together emergency management, fire service, law enforcement, public health, communications, volunteer organizations, and business professionals from across the region to share best practices and strengthen preparedness.

Residents can visit Mass.gov/ready to find emergency preparedness guidance in several languages, safety information for specific hazards, and resources from MEMA, DPH, and the Massachusetts Office on Disability.