MCHD encourages residents to prepare during National Preparedness Month 09.04.26

September 4, 2026

MCHD encourages residents to prepare during National Preparedness Month

MOBILE, Ala. — September is National Preparedness Month, an annual observance led by FEMA’s Ready Campaign that encourages individuals, families and communities to prepare before disasters strike. This year’s theme, “Americans Stand Ready,” highlights the everyday actions that help protect loved ones and strengthen entire communities.

For Mobile County residents, preparedness is especially important during hurricane season, when severe weather, flash flooding, extended power outages and other emergencies can disrupt daily life with little warning.

“Preparedness is not about panic — it is about taking practical steps before an emergency occurs,” said Brittany Edmondson, Emergency Preparedness Administrator for the Mobile County Health Department (MCHD). “When families have a plan, supplies and a way to stay informed, they are better positioned to protect themselves, support their neighbors and recover more quickly.”

MCHD’s Emergency Preparedness team works year-round with the Mobile County Emergency Management Agency, healthcare coalitions, local leaders and community partners to help residents prepare for emergencies. This includes outreach, education, planning and coordination for people who may have medical or functional needs during a disaster.

“True preparedness is not something we can accomplish overnight,” Edmondson said. “It takes teamwork, consistent outreach and community engagement throughout the year. Our medical-needs shelter planning is one example of how local partners work together to help residents stay safe and ready during a major incident.”

Preparedness Starts at Home

A household emergency plan should identify how family members will receive alerts, communicate with one another, shelter safely or evacuate if necessary. Families should choose meeting locations, identify an out-of-area emergency contact and keep important medical information readily available. FEMA also encourages households to consider the specific needs of children, older adults, people with disabilities, people who rely on medications or powered medical equipment, and pets.

This planning is especially important for Mobile County residents who depend on electricity and routine care, including those who use oxygen equipment, motorized wheelchairs or refrigerated medications such as insulin. A power outage can quickly become a health emergency if families do not have a backup plan.

For federal preparedness resources, including family planning forms and emergency-kit checklists, visit https://www.ready.gov. Residents can also find local preparedness information through MCHD’s Emergency Preparedness program and the Mobile County Emergency Management Agency.

When Mobile County households prepare in advance, the entire community stands stronger — ready to weather the next storm together.