National Preparedness Month (NPM), recognized each September, is a reminder to prepare yourselves and your families now and throughout the year for any kind of disaster. “Prepared, Not Scared.” 

The purpose of NPM, designated annually by the Federal Emergency Management Agency, is to raise public awareness about the importance of being prepared for any emergency. The goal of the initiative is to increase the overall number of individuals, families, and communities that engage in preparedness actions.

This NPM will focus on family and community emergency planning, with an overarching theme: “Prepared, Not Scared.” NPM reminds everyone to be prepared for the unexpected; to learn lifesaving skills, such as CPR and first aid; and check insurance policies for hazards you may face, like floods and hurricanes.

In recognition of NPM, the Alexandria Fire Department, Office of Emergency Management, and Volunteer Alexandria will teach Until Help Arrives and Hands-Only CPR. We encourage everyone to learn how to prepare for emergencies by participating in these events throughout the month of September. We will be also distributing information about preparedness throughout the month and City. 

Until Help Arrives Classes will be offered on these dates. Registration is required due to limited space available per class. 

Wednesday, Sept. 11 at 1-5 p.m. REGISTER HERE Wednesday, Sept. 11 at 6-10 p.m. REGISTER HERE Wednesday, Sept. 25 1-5 p.m. REGISTER HERE.

Hands-Only CPR available at these locations: 

• Sept. 5 11 a.m.-2 p.m. at First Thursday in Del Ray (Mt. Vernon Ave.)

• Sept. 6 11 a.m.-2 p.m. at McDonald’s (1000 N. Henry St.)

• Sept. 9 11 a.m.-2 p.m. at Dulaney Gardens (300 Dulaney St.)

• Sept. 24 (Emergency Preparedness Fair) 11 a.m.-2 p.m. at Market Square (301 King St.)

Outreach Events will take place at these locations: 

Volunteers are needed to help distributing information to the general public. Register online. 

Sign up to receive alerts when experiencing emergencies in your area.

For more information or media inquiries, contact Senior Public Information Officer Raytevia Evans, at raytevia.evans@alexandriva.gov or 703.746.5190.