Chairman Carper Urges Americans to “Be Disaster Aware and Take Action to Prepare” this September

WASHINGTON – Senator Tom Carper (D-Del.), chairman of the Senate Committee on Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs and an honorary Congressional Co-Chair of the Federal Emergency Management Agency’s (FEMA) National Preparedness Month, released the following statement to highlight the beginning of National Preparedness Month this September:

“I often say that an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure – and when it comes to being prepared for natural or manmade disasters, a little extra planning can go a long way,” said Chairman Carper. “Being prepared can save money and save lives. As the Chairman of the Senate Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs Committee, I work hand in hand with my congressional colleagues to ensure that our government is prepared to respond to disasters and help save lives when the unexpected occurs. But being prepared for disasters cannot fall solely on the government. National Preparedness Month comes as reminder for all Americans to plan for the unexpected and think about how they can protect themselves and their loved ones when a disaster occurs. I encourage everyone to take a few moments this month to sit down with their families and come up with a plan.”

During this September’s National Preparedness Month, FEMA asks families, workplaces and communities to “Be Disaster Aware and Take Action to Prepare.” Below are some tips from FEMA to help prepare for unexpected emergencies:

Be Informed. Knowing what to do before, during and after an emergency is a critical part of being prepared and may make all the difference when seconds count.

Make a Plan. Your family may not be together when a disaster strikes so it is important to plan in advance: how you will get to a safe place; how you will contact one another; how you will get back together; and what you will do in different situations.

Build a Kit. Try to assemble your kit well in advance of an emergency. You may have to evacuate at a moment’s notice and take essentials with you. You will probably not have time to search for the supplies you need or shop for them.

Get Involved. There are many ways to get involved especially before a disaster occurs.  The whole community can participate in programs and activities to make their families, homes and communities safer from risks and threats.

For more information, visit http://www.ready.gov.