Oregon Governor Proclaims September Preparedness Month

SALEM, Ore. - Gov. Tina Kotek has proclaimed September as Preparedness Month in Oregon, underscoring the importance of readiness and resilience across the state. The proclamation serves as a rallying point for the Oregon Department of Emergency Management (OEM) and its partners to amplify preparedness messaging and activities statewide. It also invites all Oregonians to take proactive steps to safeguard their families, homes, and communities against future disasters.

"OEM remains committed to ensuring every Oregonian has access to the tools and resources they need to prepare for emergencies," OEM Director Erin McMahon, said. "Preparedness Month is a valuable reminder that we are stronger and more resilient when we plan ahead, practice safety, and stay connected within our communities."

OEM continues to spotlight its "Be 2 Weeks Ready" campaign, a multilingual multimedia toolkit that helps individuals and communities prepare to be self-sufficient for at least two weeks following a disaster. This year, the campaign will again be supported through community events, educational outreach, and digital engagement across Oregon.

Proclamation Highlights

The governor's proclamation emphasizes:

• #OregonPreparednessMonth offers a vital opportunity for every Oregonian to learn how to prepare for all types of emergencies.
• Federal, Tribal, state, local, and private sector partners are working together to prevent and respond to disasters.
• OEM prioritizes outreach and education to ensure all Oregonians understand the importance of emergency preparedness.
• Communities across Oregon are actively training, educating, and equipping residents for disaster events.
• Adequate preparation is essential to the health and well-being of every Oregonian.
• The "Be 2 Weeks Ready" program empowers individuals to take meaningful steps toward resilience.

2026 Preparedness Events to Help You Get Started

To cap off Preparedness Month, OEM invites the public to attend the Ready Fair on Saturday, Oct. 10, 2026, in Salem. This free, family-friendly event is designed to help our communities build resilience and preparedness.

The Ready Fair will bring together subject-matter experts and community partners to share practical tips and resources aligned with OEM's Be 2 Weeks Ready program.

What to Expect:

• Expert-Led Booths on emergency alerts, food and water planning, sanitation, and more
• Interactive Activities including a fun, earthquake-themed escape room and shake simulator.
• Preparedness for All Ages with kid-friendly stations and hands-on learning.
• Food Trucks and a chance to win a fully stocked emergency go-bag for your family.

Event Details:

• Date: Saturday, October 10, 2026
• Time: 11 a.m. - 3 p.m.
• Location: 3930 Fairview Industrial Dr. SE, Salem, Oregon 97302
• Cost: FREE and open to the public

In addition to the Ready Fair, OEM is encouraging people to participate in the Great Oregon ShakeOut: October 15, 2026, at 10:16 AM (local time). Join millions of people across Oregon to practice earthquake safety. The ShakeOut is a fast, simple drill to help you learn how to Drop, Cover and Hold On.

And the Great Oregon Camp-In: October 16-18, 2026. Held the weekend after the ShakeOut, the Camp-In is an at-home preparedness exercise where households practice living without utilities, refine emergency plans and test their supplies. Participate for a few hours or the entire weekend.

"Community preparedness is strongest when people feel informed, supported, and empowered," OEM's Community Preparedness Coordinator Kayla Thompson, said. "Our goal is to meet Oregonians where they are, provide accessible resources, and encourage everyday steps that build resilience long before an emergency happens."

For more information on Preparedness Month and the Be 2 Weeks Ready campaign, visit www.oregon.gov/oem.