Get Ready Day is an annual observance dedicated to promoting emergency preparedness among individuals, families, and communities. It encourages people to be prepared for various crises, including natural disasters, pandemic illnesses, and other emergencies.

Quick facts

  • When is it?: Third Tuesday in September
  • Tagged as: Awareness & Advocacy, Health & Wellness
  • What’s the hashtag?: #GetReadyDay
  • When was it founded?: Mid-2000s
  • Who founded it?: American Public Health Association (APHA)

History of Get Ready Day

Get Ready Day was established by the American Public Health Association in the mid-2000s as part of their Get Ready Campaign. The day aims to raise awareness about the importance of being prepared for emergencies and disasters. It coincides with National Preparedness Month, providing an opportunity for schools, workplaces, and organizations to educate and engage people in preparedness activities.

Timeline

  • Mid-2000s: APHA establishes Get Ready Day
  • 2006: First official observance of Get Ready Day
  • Annually: Observed on the third Tuesday of September

Upcoming Dates

YearMonth and DateDay
2025September 16Tuesday
2026September 15Tuesday
2027September 21Tuesday
2028September 19Tuesday
2029September 18Tuesday
2030September 17Tuesday

Observed

Get Ready Day is observed through various activities and events organized by communities, schools, workplaces, and health organizations. These may include preparedness fairs, educational talks, distribution of emergency planning materials, and social media campaigns to spread awareness.

Get Ready Day is marked by various activities and events aimed at raising awareness about emergency preparedness. These may include:

  • Community preparedness fairs
  • Educational workshops and seminars
  • Distribution of emergency preparedness materials
  • Social media campaigns sharing tips and resources
  • Emergency drills in schools and workplaces

Fun Facts About Get Ready Day

  • The day focuses on preparing for both natural disasters and health emergencies like pandemics.
  • APHA provides free resources and tools on their website to help organize Get Ready Day events.
  • The observance encourages creating emergency kits for all family members, including pets.
  • Get Ready Day promotes learning essential skills like CPR and first aid.

Quiz

  1. What should be included in an emergency kit?
  2. How many days of water supply should you have in your emergency kit?
  3. What is the recommended way to stay informed during an emergency?

(Answers: 1. Flashlights, batteries, water, food, first aid supplies. 2. At least three days. 3. Battery-powered radio)

FAQs

Q: Why is Get Ready Day important?
A: Get Ready Day helps raise awareness about the importance of emergency preparedness, potentially saving lives during disasters.

Q: How can I participate in Get Ready Day?
A: You can create an emergency plan for your family, assemble an emergency kit, attend local preparedness events, or share information on social media.

Q: Why is emergency preparedness important?
A: Emergency preparedness helps individuals and communities better cope with and recover from unexpected disasters or crises, potentially saving lives and reducing the impact of emergencies.

Q: How can I participate in Get Ready Day?
A: You can participate by creating or updating your emergency plan, assembling an emergency kit, attending local preparedness events, or sharing preparedness information with others.

Importance of Get Ready Day

Get Ready Day plays a crucial role in promoting public safety and resilience. By encouraging individuals and communities to prepare for emergencies, it helps reduce the impact of disasters, saves lives, and fosters a culture of readiness and mutual support during crises.

Related

  • National Preparedness Month
  • World Health Day
  • International Day for Disaster Reduction
  • Earth Day