On Heels Of Updated NOAA Hurricane Outlook, FEMA Emphasizes Public Preparedness

Seed Newsvine

8/9/09 Friday, the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration issued a revised hurricane outlook for the 2009 hurricane season. While this outlook provides important trends and cycles, FEMA is taking this opportunity to remind the public that no one can predict where the next storm will strike or what the impacts of that storm will be. That is why it is critical, as we move into the more active phase of the hurricanes season, that we all take steps now to prepare ourselves and our families.

“If you live in a hurricane prone area, it is common sense to ensure your family is prepared,” said FEMA Administrator Craig Fugate.  “We do not know where the next hurricane will strike, but what we do know is that the more the public does now to prepare, the better the outcome will be. I’m encouraging anyone in a hurricane prone state to take a few small steps to ensure their family is ready.”

Everyone, even, those living outside of hurricane-risk areas, should ensure they have taken steps to prepare including developing an emergency kit, getting training in CPR or first aid, and knowing if they live in an evacuation route.

Important items to have ready in case of an emergency include a battery-powered radio, flashlight, extra batteries, medicines, non-perishable food, hand-operated can opener, utility knife, and first aid supplies. Copy and store your important documents in a waterproof bag. These may include medical records, contracts, property deeds, leases, banking records, insurance records, and birth certificates.

Earlier this week Administrator Fugate released a video message on the importance of personal preparedness. The video can be viewed at: www.youtube.com/fema.

For more preparedness information, please visit www.fema.gov and www.ready.gov.

FEMA's mission is to support our citizens and first responders to ensure that as a nation we work together to build, sustain, and improve our capability to prepare for, protect against, respond to, recover from, and mitigate all hazards.