TRENTON – The Senate Law and Public Safety Committee advanced a joint resolution sponsored by its Chair, Senator Linda Greenstein, which would designate the month of September of each year as “Emergency Preparedness Month” in New Jersey.

If passed, the Governor would be requested to issue a proclamation recognizing September as “Emergency Preparedness Month,” and call upon public officials and the residents of New Jersey to observe with appropriate activities and programs, with the goal of raising awareness of the importance of preparing State residents for emergencies and disasters throughout the year.

“As we have seen in recent weeks through Hurricanes Helene and Milton, it is imperative that individuals have a plan in place for when disaster strikes,” said Senator Greenstein (D-Mercer/Middlesex). “Hurricane season is at its peak around the month of September, so there is no better time for New Jersey residents and their families to pause and go over what they would do in the event of an emergency.”

Prior to declared emergencies, New Jersey residents should establish a family preparedness plan to establish evacuation and meeting locations, create communication and financial plans, determine how the family could best shelter in place, and evaluate property insurance needs. Preparedness plans should also consider the medical and physical needs of all family members and pets.

The resolution was advanced in a 5-0 vote.