Give Gifts of Emergency Preparedness

As 2011 — one of the most active years for disasters in recent history — comes to a close, Federal Emergency Management Agency officials encourage all Americans to Resolve to be Ready by making a new year's resolution to be prepared for emergencies.

As a recent report by the National Climatic Data Center highlights, 2011 has seen more billion-dollar natural disasters than any year on record. This year alone, the United States experienced its first hurricane landfall since 2008, the most deadly series of tornadoes since the 1950s, significant earthquakes and severe flooding — hazards that impacted every region of the country. All of these events served as important reminders that disasters can strike anytime, anywhere, and being prepared is one of the most effective things people can do to protect homes, businesses and loved ones.

Chief Michael Wiegand said tornado, flooding and earthquakes are all threats to the Eureka community. "Being prepared by having a plan before disaster strikes is very important," he said. "Citizens can prepare their families and places of work by following FEMA publications, Ready in 3 materials, or participate in a CERT (Community Emergency Response Team) program."

This week, FEMA kicked off its annual campaign, Resolve to be Ready in 2012, which urges Americans to make preparedness a priority during the holiday season by making a new year's resolution to be ready for disasters or by thinking about preparedness tools for last-minute gift ideas.

"One of the most important lessons we can take away from this year is that disasters can impact all of us, no matter what part of the country we live in," said FEMA Administrator Craig Fugatein a release to local emergency responders. "While we can't control where or when they might hit, we can take steps in advance to prepare for them, efforts that can go a long way toward protecting our families, homes and business. Resolving to be Ready in 2012 could be the most important pledge you make this year."

By making a resolution to take a few simple steps in advance, local residents and other Americans can minimize the impact of emergencies on their families, homes or businesses. To take the pledge, click here. It 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 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.