National Preparedness Month is an annual nationwide effort to encourage Americans to take simple steps to prepare for emergencies in their homes, businesses and communities. What would you do if you had 5 days to prepare to evacuate due to a major storm as they do in the hurricane regions of the U.S.? In Oregon, one of our potential disasters will come with very little warning - an earthquake. So it's important that each of us have plans to support our families, friends and communities. Take three steps to get started: get a kit, make a plan, be informed.