Citizen's Protection Guide

The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) announced the availability of a new publication to help individuals prepare themselves and their families for disasters. Are You Ready? A Guide to Citizen Preparedness (FEMA publication H-34) brings together facts on disaster survival techniques, disaster-specific information, and how to prepare for and respond to both natural and man-made disasters.

Are You Ready? provides a step-by-step outline on how to prepare a disaster supply kit, emergency planning for people with disabilities, how to locate and evacuate to a shelter, and even contingency planning for family pets. Man-made threats from hazardous materials and terrorism are also treated in detail. The guide details opportunities for every citizen to become involved in safeguarding their neighbors and communities through FEMA's Citizen Corps initiative and Community Emergency Response Team training program.

The interest in disaster preparedness has increased dramatically since the terrorist attacks on September 11. Are You Ready? is designed to help Americans take responsibility and get prepared by having a plan in place to protect your family and your home or business.

"Taking personal responsibility for the safety of our families, our neighbors and our nation is critical to ensuring damages and losses from disasters are limited," said FEMA Director Joe M. Allbaugh. "Every American needs to participate in preparing their families so that we - as a nation - are all better prepared."

"Everyone needs to know how to respond to any disaster that could occur in their communities. That includes both natural disasters such as floods, hurricanes, earthquakes and tornadoes - as well as manmade disasters such as terrorism and accidents involving hazardous materials," said Allbaugh.