In recognition of National Preparedness month, the DeKalb County Health Department (DCHD) is launching a month-long initiative to raise public awareness for emergency preparedness. This year’s national theme, “Preparedness Starts at Home,” emphasizes the role individuals and families play in staying safe during emergencies.

Throughout September, the DCHD Emergency Preparedness Team will engage with the community through a series of presentations and outreach events. The focus will be on three key preparedness actions:

1. Build an Emergency Kit. Have a supply of food, water, and medications to ensure your household can remain safe and comfortable until help arrives. A well-equipped kit can also help prevent injury and damage.
2. Create a Family Emergency Plan. Having a plan helps to reduce stress during an incident. Follow four easy steps and create a free Family Emergency Plan.
3. Get involved. Explore the DeKalb County MRC volunteer program or take a free online independent study course through FEMA’s Emergency Management Institute or explore the Ready.Gov website.

As part of the initiative, DCHD will distribute free starter emergency preparedness kits at scheduled outreach events—available while supplies last. Each kit includes a weather alert radio with flashlight and phone-charging capabilities, a first aid kit, emergency blanket, and other essential items.

Below are a few of the locations:

September 11, 2025               Genoa Public Library-presentation at 1:30pm

September 16, 2025               DeKalb Public Library- table display outreach from 9:30am-11:00am

September 17, 2025               Somonauk Public Library- presentation at 2:00pm

Additionally, DCHD will host giveaways of four emergency kits via the DCHD social media Facebook page. These online raffles offer an opportunity for residents who are unable to attend in-person events to receive a starter kit. To enter, individuals must like, follow, comment, or share DCHD Emergency Preparedness Month posts throughout September.

Be sure to visit the DeKalb County Health Department’s social media for additional tips to keep your family safe during an emergency. You can also visit Ready.gov for additional tools to help you and your family prepare.