September is National Preparedness Month, and FISH of SanCap is reminding island residents and workers to remain prepared, connect with neighbors and take simple steps that can make a difference when skies turn grey.
As a United Way Resiliency Hub, FISH works throughout the year to help Sanibel and Captiva prepare for, respond to and recover from emergencies. That work includes preparedness education, distribution of hurricane supplies and resources, coordination with community partners, and assistance for neighbors who may need additional support before and after a storm.
“We have learned through every storm that preparation starts well before there is something in the forecast,” said Maria Espinoza, FISH Executive Director. “It means knowing what your household needs, having a plan and knowing where to turn if you need help. FISH also has a responsibility to be prepared so we can respond quickly and work with our partners when our community needs us.”
Throughout September, FISH will recognize National Preparedness Month through its “Prepared Together” campaign. Each week will focus on an action to improve readiness while looking out for others.
The month will begin with “Every Go Bag Tells a Story,” encouraging community members to build or refresh emergency Go Bags and post a picture or comment about a favorite or unexpected item on the FISH social media post. The most creative or unexpected item, chosen by the FISH team, will win a Preparedness Prize featuring an emergency essential. Official prize rules are available on FISH’s Neighbors in Readiness webpage.
FISH will also encourage residents to check in with neighbors, family members and older adults to make sure they have what they need for the remainder of hurricane season.
Later in the month, FISH will host a community supply drive for flashlights and AA and AAA batteries. Donated items will help FISH keep preparedness resources on hand for neighbors who may need assistance during power outages or other emergencies.
Residents are encouraged to follow FISH on social media for weekly preparedness challenges, tips, reminders and opportunities to participate in the campaign.
“Preparedness can feel like a long list, but it really comes down to doing a few important things before you need them,” said Simon Robson, FISH Community Outreach and Resiliency Director. “Update your supplies; know your evacuation plan; check on the neighbors around you and know who you can call and who may be counting on you. Those actions are just as important as what you put in a hurricane kit.”
National Preparedness Month also builds on FISH’s year-round Neighbors in Readiness program, a monthly preparedness series designed to help folks stay safe and informed. Each month, FISH shares easy-to-follow tips, reminders and resources on its website.
FISH’s resiliency work builds on years of experience responding to hurricanes and other emergencies affecting Sanibel and Captiva. During blue skies, the organization focuses on education, planning, supplies and partnerships. When grey skies arrive, FISH shifts quickly to meet community needs, working with local agencies and partner organizations to help coordinate food, supplies, information, financial assistance and recovery resources. That role continues long after a storm passes, as recovery can take months or years for some households, particularly older adults, lower-income workers and families facing housing or financial challenges.
“Resiliency is part of FISH’s work every day,” Espinoza added. “The stronger the relationships are before an emergency, the better prepared the community is when something happens. National Preparedness Month gives everyone a reason to check their plans, connect with the people around them and make sure they are ready.”
FISH will share National Preparedness Month activities, Neighbors in Readiness resources and other preparedness information throughout September on its social media pages and website. Residents are encouraged to follow along, participate in the weekly activities and share information with family, friends and neighbors.
Additional preparedness resources and information about FISH programs and services are available at fishofsancap.org.
