ExecutiveOrdersEO
Proc 10244ProclamationBiden · DCeremonial

Proclamation 10244

National Preparedness Month, 2021

Energy & EnvironmentEnergy & EnvironmentHealthcareHealthcareDefense & SecurityDefense & SecurityOtherOther

In simple terms

President Biden proclaimed September 2021 as National Preparedness Month, urging Americans to prepare for natural and human-made disasters, get vaccinated against COVID-19, and take practical emergency preparedness steps. The proclamation emphasizes climate change resilience, infrastructure investment, and equity for disadvantaged communities affected by disasters.

Federal Register Open PDF 86 FR 49893

Record & deadlines

  1. Signed

    Signed by the President

  2. FR published

    Published in the Federal Register · 86 FR 49893

    Federal Register PDF

  3. National Preparedness Month begins

Key directives

  • Encourage all Americans to get vaccinated
  • Encourage turning on emergency alerts on smartphones
  • Encourage packing emergency go-bags
  • Encourage community preparedness outreach
  • Direct public to FEMA Ready campaign at Ready.gov and Listo.gov

What to expect

Immediate

  • September 2021 designated as National Preparedness Month

Near term (90d)

  • Public awareness campaign for emergency preparedness
  • COVID-19 vaccination push

Long term

—

Risks & tensions

  • Proclamation mixes ceremonial observance with implicit policy advocacy on climate and vaccination that may polarize reception
  • Vague on concrete government commitments versus public encouragement
  • Equity focus acknowledges disproportionate harm but offers no specific remedial mechanisms
Proclamation 10244: National Preparedness Month, 2021 · Executive Orders