Are Your Kids Prepared for an Emergency?

The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) and the Ad Council have kicked off National Preparedness Month with new public service announcements (PSAs) from FEMA’s Ready Campaign that promote the importance of preparing children and teenagers for possible emergencies and disasters.

Involving young people in preparedness efforts can help youth, families and communities be prepared and able to respond when faced with disasters.

The campaign products this year, with the tagline “Prepared, Not Scared,” encourage parents, teachers, and caregivers to visit the website so they can teach our youth what to do when a crisis occurs, and how to take preparedness actions together.

“Imagine you are at work or at home and your child is at school or on a playdate when a disaster strikes. Do they know what to do if you are not around?” said Acting FEMA Administrator Pete Gaynor. “It is important to have these conversations now and prepare ahead of time to be ready for the unexpected.”

Production partner Newfangled Studios created pro bono TV, digital and out-of-home ads. Additionally, FEMA is also teaming up with Sony Pictures on their upcoming film Zombieland: Double Tap to promote the crucial message of emergency preparedness.

“Emergency preparedness should be top of mind for every American,” says Chief Campaign Development Officer, Michelle Hillman. “For families with kids in the home, it’s especially important. This campaign will continue to empower families to have peace-of-mind knowing their children know what to do in case of a disaster.”

Each week of National Preparedness Month, the Ready Campaign will emphasize a unique aspect of preparedness:

September 1—7: Save Early for Disaster Costs

September 8—14: Make a Plan to Prepare for Disasters.

September 15—21: Teach Youth to Prepare for Disasters

September 22—30: Get Involved in Your Community’s Preparedness.

FEMA’s responsibility is to help people before, during and after disasters.