American Legion Joins
Department of Homeland Security in promoting Fifth Annual National Preparedness
Month
WASHINGTON (May 1, 2008) -- The American Legion has joined with the U.S.
Department of Homeland Security in promoting the fifth annual National
Preparedness Month this September and encourages Americans to prepare for
emergencies in their homes, businesses and communities. This year, the Ready
Campaign is encouraging Americans to take simple steps to prepare including: Get
a Kit; Make a Plan; Be Informed about the different types of emergencies and
their appropriate responses; and Get Involved.
“As
military veterans we understand the value of readiness,” said Marty Conatser,
national commander of The American Legion. “As a country at war, it just makes
good sense for every family to have a disaster plan and readiness kit with three
days of food and supplies to survive potential natural disasters or terrorist
caused catastrophic events.”
“We
cannot stress enough the importance of being prepared for all types of
emergencies, from natural disasters to terrorist attacks,” said Department of
Homeland Security Secretary Michael Chertoff. “Having a plan can make all the
difference, as the recent flooding and ice storms across the country have shown.
The time for individuals, families and businesses to plan is now, and to resolve
to make readiness a priority for 2008.”
With
more than 14,000 American Legion posts across the country, Legionnaires are
encouraged to plan and conduct activities and events in September to highlight
the importance of emergency preparedness and promote individual involvement,
such as first aid trainings, town hall meetings and much more. Posts may broaden
their community service outreach by getting involved with their local Citizen
Corps Councils and by participating in Citizen Corps initiatives and programs.
The
American Legion publication, “Disaster Preparedness and Response for American
Legion Posts" (Stock #58-002), contains complete details in planning,
organizing, and executing a disaster preparedness and response program.
The
American Legion and more than 600 other National Preparedness Month coalition
members have agreed to distribute emergency preparedness information and sponsor
activities across the country that will promote emergency preparedness.
Individuals interested in more information about family and business
preparedness can visit www.ready.gov or call
1-800-BE-READY to receive free materials.
Disaster Preparedness Booklet
(PDF)
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