Homeland security and red cross: preparedness month (September...)

[The Straight Story]

Homeland Security and American Red Cross Co-Sponsor National Preparedness Month 2005

For Immediate Release
Office of the Press Secretary
Contact: 202-282-8010
American Red Cross Press Office, Stacey Grissom 202-303-4462
June 9, 2005

The U.S. Department of Homeland Security and the American Red Cross today announced they will co-sponsor National Preparedness Month 2005, a nationwide effort held this September to encourage Americans to prepare for emergencies in their homes, businesses and schools. The goal of National Preparedness Month is to increase public awareness about the importance of preparing for emergencies and to encourage individuals to take action.

“No community is truly prepared for a disaster until every individual, family and household takes personal responsibility for preparedness,” said American Red Cross President and CEO Marsha J. Evans. “Red Cross chapters across the country are helping people learn how to create a family disaster plan so that each person knows what to do, where to go, and how to contact loved ones.”

Throughout September, Homeland Security and the American Red Cross will work with local, state and federal government organizations and the private sector to highlight the importance of public emergency preparedness. Senators Susan Collins (R-ME) and Joseph Lieberman (D-CT) and Representatives Christopher Cox (R-CA) and Bennie Thompson (D-MS) have agreed to serve as Congressional Co-Chairs of National Preparedness Month 2005. In addition, more than 125 national organizations (see attached listing) have already joined the National Preparedness Month Coalition, which will distribute emergency preparedness information, host events and sponsor activities across the country.

“We are pleased to have the American Red Cross, which has long been a leader in emergency preparedness and response, co-sponsor National Preparedness Month 2005,” said Homeland Security Secretary Michael Chertoff. “The commitment of the American Red Cross and the members of National Preparedness Month Coalition are integral as we work to encourage all Americans to prepare for emergencies. As leaders in their communities, these organizations will help spread life saving information and move the entire nation toward a greater state of preparedness.”

National Preparedness Month will provide Americans with a variety of opportunities to learn more about preparing for emergencies, including natural disasters and potential terrorist threats. Events, activities, and messages across the nation will encourage individuals to get an emergency supply kit, make a family emergency plan, be informed about different threats and get involved in preparing their communities.

http://www.dhs.gov/dhspublic/display?content=4538