Empower future generations on being ready for disasters during Preparedness Month

MADISON — As disasters become more frequent and severe, it is important to ensure younger generations have the knowledge to keep them safe and build resiliency. September is Preparedness Month, and ReadyWisconsin encourages everyone to spend time this month teaching children and teens how to be prepared.

“Making sure kids are equipped with safety skills now will keep them calm and confident when emergencies or disasters occur,” said Wisconsin Emergency Management Administrator Greg Engle. “Preparedness Month is a perfect opportunity to teach them the basics, make a plan and practice that plan together.”

Parents should talk to their children about what to do if there is an emergency at home, school or daycare.

Teach children when and how to call 911 in case of an emergency.Make sure they know who to contact and identify a safe meeting place by creating an emergency communications plan for your family. Plans should include important phone numbers and a backup point of contact.Put together an emergency supply kit with kids and show them where it will be kept.Practice emergency plans at home, including knowing where a safe spot is in case of a tornado.

Educators can also help prepare students by offering the Student Tools for Emergency Planning (STEP) program in their classrooms. Designed for fourth- and fifth-grade students, this curriculum developed by the Federal Emergency Management Agency is made available by the state at no cost to educators. The program teaches important preparedness lessons to children and encourages them to take that information home.

Fourth- and fifth-grade educators and school administrators interested in offering the STEP program in their schools during the spring of 2025 can find more information online at readywisconsin.wi.gov/step .