Homeland Security Updates Emergency Preparedness Web Site
The tornados, flooding and wildfires recently experienced in parts of the country are another reminder of how critical it is for Americans to prepare for emergencies. The U.S. Department of Homeland Securitys Ready Campaign has launched an updated version of its Web site, www.ready.gov, to educate Americans about the simple steps they should take to be ready for a variety of emergencies.
All Americans have a responsibility to take steps now to be prepared for emergencies whether they are caused by nature or by man, said Homeland Security’s Under Secretary for Preparedness George W. Foresman. At Ready.gov individuals can find information and resources that detail some of the basic things they can do to keep their family safe for emergencies large and small.
Ready, a national public service advertising campaign was launched in February 2003 to educate and empower Americans to prepare for and respond to emergencies. The campaign encourages individuals to use www.ready.gov to learn how to get an emergency supply kit, make a family emergency plan, and be better informed about the types of emergencies that are most likely to occur in their area. The campaigns Web site has received more than 1.9 billion hits and 23 million unique visitors.
The redesigned Ready Web site includes updated emergency preparedness resources, including special preparedness information for pet owners, senior citizens, and individuals with disabilities and special needs. It also provides Americans with increased state and local information so they can learn about the types of emergencies that are more likely to happen in their area and the plans that have been established to deal with these emergencies.
The revised Web site launches in time for National Preparedness Month 2006, a nationwide effort held each September to encourage Americans to take simple steps to prepare for emergencies. The goal of National Preparedness Month 2006 is to increase public awareness about the importance of family preparedness and to encourage individuals to take action in their homes and schools.
