September is Disaster Preparedness Month. Consider these steps to prepare your home and family for emergencies:

• Create a family emergency plan that includes communication plans, evacuation routes, shelters, and meeting points.

• Assemble a kit with non-perishable food, water, flashlights, batteries and a first aid kit.

• Secure your home: install smoke detectors and CO monitors and learn how to turn off water, gas and electricity in case of emergency.

• Stay informed and weather-aware by signing up for local alerts and a reliable weather radio or app.