September is National Preparedness Month and an excellent time to make sure you and your loved ones are prepared for disasters and emergencies that could occur. This year's theme is "A Lasting Legacy."

Preparedness Month was initiated by the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) to educate the public on how to prepare for emergencies after the terrorist attacks on Sept. 11, 2001, in the United States. 

National Preparedness Month is an opportunity to take three simple steps to ensure you're ready for a disaster or emergency:

• Be aware of hazards.
• Make an emergency plan.
• Build an emergency kit.

Additionally, the U.S. Fire Administration recommends:

• Put smoke alarms in every sleeping room, outside each separate sleeping area, and on every level of your home, including the basement.
• Make a fire escape plan and practice it with everyone in your home.

For more information on emergency preparedness visit www.beready.iowa.gov or www.jecc-ema.org. Information can also be found on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/johnsoncountyiowaema. Search for #NatlPrep and #ReadyIA.