Yavapai County Encourages Residents to Prepare for Emergencies During National Preparedness Month

September is National Preparedness Month, and Yavapai County’s Office of Emergency Management is encouraging residents, families, businesses, and communities to take simple steps now to be better prepared for emergencies and disasters.

This year’s national theme, “Americans Stand Ready,” reminds us that preparedness starts with each of us.

Yavapai County residents face a variety of hazards, including wildfire, extreme heat, severe weather, flooding, winter weather, and power outages. Being prepared can help residents protect themselves, their families, pets and neighbors while allowing first responders to focus on those who need help the most.

“Preparedness doesn’t have to be complicated or expensive,” said Ashley Ahlquist, Yavapai County’s Emergency Manager. “Taking one small step today can make a big difference when an emergency happens.”

Yavapai County’s Office of Emergency Management encourages residents to:

• KNOW YOUR RISK: Understand the hazards that could affect your home and community.
• MAKE A PLAN: Know where you will go, how you will communicate, and what you will do if you need to evacuate.
• BUILD A KIT: Keep essential supplies, medications, food, water, and important documents ready.
• STAY INFORMED: Sign up for local emergency alerts and follow trusted sources for emergency information.

For years, residents have been encouraged to prepare for at least 72 hours without essential services. While 72 hours is a great place to start – the new standard is two weeks. Emergencies can and are lasting longer than expected, and access to food, water, medications, fuel, and other necessities may be limited.

The Yavapai County Office of Emergency Management encourages residents to gradually build a 14-day supply based on their household’s specific needs. This includes water and shelf-stable food, prescription and essential medications, pet supplies, hygiene items, flashlights and batteries, first-aid supplies, important documents, backup power or charging options, and other items needed for daily living. Residents should also consider the needs of children, older adults, people with disabilities, and animals.

Preparing for two weeks doesn’t mean buying everything at once. Start with what you have, make a list, and add a few items as you can. Choose foods your family eats, rotate supplies before they expire, and keep your emergency kit somewhere that is easy to access. The goal is to build a practical supply that can help your household remain safe and self-sufficient while emergency responders and community partners focus on the larger response.

“Preparedness is not about expecting the worst – it’s about giving yourself and your family more options when something unexpected happens. We want every resident in Yavapai County to have the knowledge, resources, and confidence to stand ready,” Ahlquist added.

This September, Yavapai County Emergency Managements encourages residents to take action, make a plan, and stand ready.

For additional resources, visit Yavapai County Office of Emergency Management at yavapaiready.gov and be sure to follow Yavapai County Emergency Management on social media.