FEMA highlights National Preparedness Month

This September, make your personalized preparedness plans

[September 14, 2012]  CHICAGO -- September is National Preparedness Month, and as we remember the tragic events of the Sept. 11, 2001, terrorist attacks, the Federal Emergency Management Agency Region V reminds everyone to make preparedness a priority.

"We all want peace of mind knowing that our families, our homes and our businesses are safe and protected from threats of any kind," said Andrew Velasquez III, regional administrator of FEMA's office in Chicago. "Throughout the month of September we are encouraging the whole community -- individuals, businesses, community organizations, faith-based groups, and state, local and tribal governments -- to focus on preparing for all types of emergencies and disasters that may impact their communities."

Preparing can start with three important steps:

• Put together your own personalized emergency supply kit.

• Plan now so you know what do to before, during and after disaster strikes.

• Be informed about specific hazards that could affect your community.

Everyone should take responsibility for being prepared, with the understanding that disasters may disrupt essential services. Everyone should have sufficient supplies for at least three days. Taking action now to prepare for emergencies and disasters will increase your chances of surviving and recovering from a disaster.

It's also important to remember you need to be prepared for all seasons.

FEMA has many tools to help you plan, including videos and social media links. The following are just a few examples:

• Winter is just around the corner, which can bring many types of unforeseen weather emergencies. See www.fema.gov/medialibrary/
  media_records/6746.

• Spring weather is always unpredictable. Severe storms, tornadoes and flooding can occur without much warning. See www.fema.gov/medialibrary/
  media_records/7626.

• In the summer, weather conditions may seem perfect for outside activities, but everyone must be aware of dangerous health issues related to extreme heat and high humidity. See www.fema.gov/medialibrary/
  media_records/8966.

• Most people spend a lot more time on the road than they realize, so no matter what the season, an emergency kit for your car should be part of your emergency plan. See www.fema.gov/medialibrary/
  media_records/5546.

For more information and ideas, visit www.ready.gov. Follow FEMA on Facebook and Twitter to get the latest information: www.facebook.com/fema, www.twitter.com/fema.

[Text from file received from FEMA Region V]