Understanding America’s Preparedness: Key Insights from FEMA’s 2024 National Household Survey
Each year, FEMA takes the pulse of the nation’s readiness through the National Household Survey on Disaster Preparedness. The 2024 survey offers critical insights into how Americans are preparing for emergencies, what motivates them, and the challenges they face. With a sample of 7,525 respondents from all 50 states, Washington, D.C., and five U.S. territories, the survey provides a comprehensive view across demographics and geographies.
A Significant Shift in Preparedness Behavior
One of the most encouraging findings in this year’s survey is the notable increase in preparedness activity. In 2024, 83% of respondents reported having taken at least three preparedness actions, a substantial improvement from just 57% in 2023. This shift suggests that Americans are becoming more proactive in safeguarding themselves and their families.
Preparedness actions ranged from no-cost efforts—such as creating a communication plan or signing up for emergency alerts—to higher-cost investments like purchasing insurance or stockpiling emergency supplies.
What’s Worrying Americans?
Disaster preparedness remains personal. Nearly one-third (30%) of respondents indicated they have worried about a disaster affecting their family. However, broader concerns reflect the interconnected nature of risks in daily life:
- 53% are concerned about their own health or that of a family member.
- 42% worry about their ability to pay bills.
- 30% fear the impact of a disaster.
These anxieties serve as powerful motivators. In fact, 44% of respondents reported that ensuring the safety of themselves and their families was their primary reason for taking preparedness actions.
Barriers to Preparedness: Cost Remains a Major Hurdle
Despite the upward trend in readiness, challenges persist. The most commonly cited barrier was cost—26% of respondents believe that preparing for a disaster is too expensive. This underscores the importance of promoting low- or no-cost preparedness strategies, especially for underserved communities.
Self-Sufficiency: A Mixed Picture
When asked about their ability to live without utilities, more than half of respondents believed they could remain in their homes for three days or more without running water or power. However, that number drops as the duration increases:
- 88% of those with emergency supplies felt they could last over three days.
- Only 34% believed their supplies could sustain them for more than two weeks.
These figures point to a gap between initial preparedness and long-term resilience—an area where further public education and support are needed.
Preparedness Efficacy: Confidence is Lacking
Preparedness efficacy—the belief in one’s ability to prepare and that such actions will make a difference—was another telling indicator:
- Only 32% of respondents reported high preparedness efficacy.
- A significant 68% expressed low confidence in their ability or in the benefits of preparedness actions.
Bridging this confidence gap is essential. Programs must not only inform but also empower individuals to take action.
The Role of Community and Government
When considering support during a disaster, Americans expect help from multiple sources:
- 71% expect to rely on friends and family.
- 52% believe the federal government will provide assistance.
This reinforces the whole-community approach to disaster preparedness, where individuals, families, communities, and government entities all have essential roles to play.
Preparedness and Relocation Decisions
Environmental and regulatory factors are influencing where Americans choose to live:
- 54% considered the impact of hazards in relocation decisions.
- 46% took building codes into account.
- 35% reported that hazard exposure directly influenced their move.
These findings suggest a growing awareness of climate and disaster risks in personal decision-making, and further validate efforts to integrate hazard mitigation into housing policy and urban planning.
Conclusion: Moving Forward with Purpose
The 2024 National Household Survey confirms that while many Americans are taking meaningful steps to prepare, significant gaps remain—in confidence, in long-term readiness, and in overcoming cost-related barriers. As emergency management professionals, we must continue to focus on accessible, inclusive outreach and policies that address the diverse needs of our communities.
Disaster preparedness is not just a checklist—it’s a mindset, a commitment, and a shared responsibility. Together, we can ensure more Americans are ready when it matters most.
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