National Preparedness Month
Building Resilience in Texas and Beyond
September is recognized as National Preparedness Month, a time dedicated to raising awareness about the importance of being ready for disasters and emergencies. From hurricanes and floods to wildfires and extreme heat, emergencies can strike without warning. Having a plan and the right resources in place can make all the difference in protecting your family, home, and community.
For those of us living in the South—especially here in Texas—preparedness is not just a recommendation, it’s a necessity. Our region faces a unique combination of risks:
Hurricane season brings powerful storms that can cause widespread flooding and power outages.
Severe thunderstorms and tornadoes can develop quickly, leaving little time to react.
Extreme heat waves put vulnerable populations at risk and strain local infrastructure.
Winter storms in recent years have shown that Texas is not immune to freezing temperatures and power grid challenges.
These realities underscore why National Preparedness Month is so important for Texans. Being prepared means more than just stocking up on supplies—it’s about building resilience. This includes creating an emergency kit with food, water, medications, and essentials for at least 72 hours; developing a family communication plan; knowing evacuation routes; and staying informed through trusted local news and emergency management updates.
Preparedness also extends beyond our own households. By checking in on neighbors, especially seniors, caregivers, LGBTQ+ families, and those with limited mobility, we strengthen our collective safety. In times of crisis, it is often our local communities that provide the first line of support.
National Preparedness Month reminds us that readiness is an act of care—for ourselves, for our loved ones, and for our communities. Here in Texas, where the weather can shift from scorching heat to violent storms in the blink of an eye, being prepared is not just wise—it’s essential.
Take Action Today:
Build or update your emergency supply kit.
Review your family communication and evacuation plan.
Sign up for local alerts and warnings.
Volunteer with or support local organizations that assist during disasters.
Share preparedness resources with LGBTQ+ friends and families who may face additional barriers during emergencies.
Resources for More Information:
Brazoria County Pride Call-to-Action:
At Brazoria County Pride, we know that LGBTQ+ individuals and families are often disproportionately impacted during crises. We encourage everyone to check in with your LGBTQ+ neighbors, share resources, and ensure that no one is left behind when disaster strikes. Preparedness is a community effort—and by supporting one another, we create a stronger, more inclusive, and more resilient Brazoria County.