FEMA wants us to resolve to be ready

As 2012 follows one of the most active years for disasters in recent history, the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) encourages all Americans to Resolve to be Ready by taking simple steps to prepare for emergencies.

A recent report by the National Climatic Data Center says that 2011 saw more billion-dollar natural disasters than any year on record. Last year alone, the U.S. 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. These events serve as important reminders that disasters can strike anytime, anywhere, and being prepared is one of the most effective things we can do to protect our homes, businesses and loved ones.

FEMA Region 6 Regional Administrator Tony Russell is urging Arkansans to be prepared by taking 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 from 2011 is that disasters can impact all of us, no matter where we live," said Russell. "They can range from natural disasters such as flooding, earthquakes, or tornadoes. We can't control where or when they might hit, but we can take steps in advance to prepare for them - efforts that can go a long way toward protecting families, businesses, homes and other property. Resolving to be Ready in 2012 could be the most important pledge you make this year."

By making a resolution to take a few preparedness steps in advance, Arkansans can minimize the impact of an emergency on themselves, their families, or their businesses. 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 on 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 Ready.gov and CitizenCorps.gov.