Get Ready Day is a holiday observed annually on the third Tuesday in September to encourage people to prepare for natural disasters, pandemics, infectious diseases, and other events that might put their lives in danger. Every year, approximately 7,000 natural disasters occur around the world, causing loss of life and widespread destruction.

Although no person can completely prepare for every eventuality they might face, what people can do is prepare as much as possible to mitigate the suffering they are likely to experience. One good way to do that is to prepare emergency kits for the home, office, and car, and another way is by observing this holiday.

The History of Get Ready Day

After Hurricane Katrina caused mass destruction and loss of life in 2005, it was decided that a day needed to be created to highlight the importance of being prepared for natural disasters and other emergencies.

As a result, the American Red Cross launched the Get Ready Campaign in 2006. This campaign was designed to raise public awareness about the possibility of natural disasters and other devastating events so they could prepare themselves and their families.

Since its launch, this holiday has been observed not only across the United States but also around the world.

On this day, people participate in emergency drills, learn first aid and CPR, and prepare emergency kits for their homes, vehicles, and offices. They also make a list of plans for where they would go in case an emergency such as a hurricane or tornado actually struck.

Observing Get Ready Day

This day is important for all people to observe. As mentioned earlier, they can observe this holiday by making their emergency kits, learning CPR and first aid, and creating evacuation plans that they and their families can follow in an emergency.

People should also spread the news about this holiday online using the hashtag #GetReadyDay to encourage others to get ready for potential disasters.