As the peak of hurricane season approaches and the threat of natural disasters remains, it's important to have a game plan and know what steps to take in the face of an emergency.

September, designated as National Preparedness Month, serves as a timely reminder to protect lives, property and essential documents.

"Disasters can happen at any time, often without warning, changing lives forever in just minutes," said Lola Gillard Mayes, preparedness manager for the Alabama and Mississippi region of the Red Cross. "As our climate changes, it's critical to help protect your loved ones, and National Preparedness Month is the ideal time to get your household ready for emergencies."

We've compiled tips from the Internal Revenue Service (IRS), the American Red Cross of Alabama and the Baldwin County Emergency Management Agency to help you prepare now before a disaster strikes.

The Red Cross says individuals should plan ahead, considering whether they may need to stay put or evacuate, and make arrangements for where they will go, how they will get there and what they will take with them.

A critical aspect of preparation involves safeguarding important documents, such as tax returns, birth certificates, social security cards and insurance policies. The IRS recommends storing these documents in water- and fireproof containers and creating secure digital backups to ensure they remain accessible in case of evacuation.

Gathering essential supplies, including food, water and medications, into both a go-kit for evacuation and a stay-at-home-kit is vital according to the Red Cross. These kits should be customized to meet the specific needs of the household, including any necessary items for infants or pets. Copies of your important documents should be included in your kits.

In addition to protecting important papers, the IRS advises maintaining a detailed inventory of property. Photos, videos and detailed descriptions of possessions can be invaluable when supporting insurance claims or applying for tax relief after a disaster.

It is also important to have a plan for reconnecting with loved ones in case of separation or communication outages and to keep a contact card with important phone numbers. Staying informed is equally crucial; the Red Cross encourages downloading their free Emergency app for real-time weather alerts and signing up for local emergency alerts to receive critical information during disasters.

Following a federal disaster declaration, the IRS may provide tax relief by postponing various tax filing and payment deadlines. Taxpayers in affected areas are automatically granted this relief, meaning they don't need to contact the IRS to receive it. Additionally, those outside the disaster zone, including those assisting with relief efforts or whose records are in the affected area, may also qualify for this relief. These individuals or businesses can request assistance by calling the IRS disaster hotline. For more details and a list of localities that qualify, taxpayers can visit www.IRS.gov.

Additionally, the IRS provides disaster loss workbooks to assist individuals and businesses in compiling these lists. In the event of a disaster, reconstructing records may be necessary for tax purposes or to access federal assistance and insurance reimbursements. Many financial institutions offer electronic statements, which can aid in the reconstruction process.

The Red Cross warns that 2024 is on track to be the hottest year on record, with the U.S. already experiencing 19 climate-related disasters costing over $1 billion each — more than double the average from the past 40 years. According to reports, Hurricane Beryl set a record as the earliest Category 5 Atlantic storm, and Hurricane Debby caused widespread flooding across the East Coast.

"The best defense during an emergency is to be prepared, and that's true for both our individual families and our entire community," said Annette Rowland, regional communications director. "During National Preparedness Month, consider donating to help people affected by disasters big and small, or making an appointment to give blood. If you have the time, take a first aid class or put on a red vest and join us as a volunteer."