FEMA: Resolve to be prepared in 2012

Van Wert independent/FEMA information

CHICAGO, Ill. — As 2011 draws to a close and Midwesterners get ready to ring in the New Year, the U.S. Department of Homeland Security’s Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) Region V office is encouraging everyone to Resolve to be Ready by taking some simple steps to prepare for emergencies.

Nationwide, 2011 saw more billion-dollar natural disasters than any year on record.  Within FEMA Region V, five states — Minnesota, Wisconsin, Illinois, Indiana and Ohio — received a total of nine federal disaster declarations for severe storms, flooding, tornadoes, and severe winter storms.  All of these events serve as important reminders that disasters can strike anytime and anywhere.  Being prepared is one of the most effective things we can do to protect our homes, businesses and loved ones.

FEMA’s Regional Administrator Andrew Velasquez III is urging everyone to make a New Year’s resolution to be prepared through three simple steps: get an emergency supply kit, make an emergency plan, and be informed of the hazards in your area.

“One of the most important lessons we can take away from the past year is that disasters can impact all of us, no matter what part of the country we live in,” said Velasquez.  “While we can’t control when or where they might strike, we can take steps in advance to prepare for disasters.  Resolving to be Ready in 2012 could be the most important pledge you make this year.”

To take the pledge, visit www.ready.gov/pledge. For more information on how to get prepared, visit www.Ready.gov or www.Listo.gov.  This website includes free information, checklists, and guidelines about how to put together a kit, make a plan, and stay informed.

Resolve to be Ready in 2012 is a nationwide effort to increase awareness and encourage individuals, families, businesses, and communities to take action and prepare for emergencies in the New Year.  This effort is led by FEMA’s Ready Campaign in partnership with Citizen Corps and The Advertising Council.

For more information, visit CitizenCorps.gov.