September is National Preparedness Month

H1N1 Swine Flu, Earthquakes and Floods, "Oh My!" The reasons to prepare these days are many. As emergency managers, we try to get the word out every day of the year about the importance of preparing for all types of disasters. But, September is the perfect time to encourage everyone to take the time to prepare and is supported by the Department of Homeland Security's National Preparedness Month campaign. To learn more about preparing for disasters and emergencies please see some of our favorite websites.

Ready.gov http://www.ready.gov/ has information for your family, for your business and specific information directed for your kids.

Washington State Emergency Management http://www.emd.wa.gov/ has personal, schools, neighborhood, business, kids, special needs and pet preparedness information. See their "Prepare in Year" campaign that we've talked about before at http://www.emd.wa.gov/preparedness/prep_personal_preparedness.shtml

Find the latest flu and H1N1 Swine Flu information at http://flu.gov/

We hope that you take the time necessary to evaluate your own families or business needs and for those around you that you care about. "When the sky is clear, carry an umbrella; though your stomach is full, carry provisions" author unknown.