| An image from one of the public service advertisements unveiled during National Preparedness Month |
As September comes to an end, so does the 6th annual National Preparedness Month (NPM), but FEMA continues efforts to ensure every American is prepared. NPM, sponsored by the Ready Campaign and Citizen Corps, in conjunction with FEMA, is held each September to encourage Americans to take simple steps to prepare for potential emergencies in their homes, businesses and communities. This year's NPM was kicked off by Secretary Napolitano and local leaders in New York City, as they unveiled new Ready Campaign public service advertising (PSAs).
More than 2,670 organizations joined the NPM Coalition and committed to promoting emergency preparedness during September by holding events and encouraging the public to get a plan, get a kit and stay informed. This campaign also reached out to more than 18,000 in the business community, more than 500 classrooms, over 2,400 Citizen Corps Councils, over 3,350 Community Emergency Response Teams (CERT), 32 Citizen Corps partners and affiliates, and an immeasurable number of concerned citizens of all backgrounds across the nation.
"National Preparedness Month may be coming to an end, but the need for the public to be prepared continues," said FEMA Administrator Craig Fugate. "We appreciate all the effort that went into making this month a success, but the fact remains, emergencies can happen any time and anywhere."
"The public is an essential member of our emergency management team and their preparedness is critical to our success. If you, your family, your friends, or your neighbors still haven't prepared, please log on to Ready.gov to learn how."
NPM concluded with the Department of Homeland Security Secretary, Janet Napolitano, delivering a personal preparedness speech at the American Red Cross to volunteers. Please view the Secretary's speech at: www.dhs.gov/journal/theblog/2009/09/prepare-yourselffor-this-video.html.