Well, it’s official: President Obama has declared this week National Hurricane Preparedness Week. As his press release explains:
“The threat hurricanes pose to lives and property cannot be eliminated, but preparedness can reduce the dangers these storms pose for our families and communities . . . . I call upon government agencies, private organizations, media, community groups, schools, and residents of hurricane-prone areas to share information about hurricane preparedness and response to help protect communities and save lives.”
While the risks of hurricanes aren’t news to any of us, the national attention is welcome. For their part, FEMA is using the week to urge residents to be prepared for their personal safety and survival in case a hurricane threatens their community. See FEMA’s Hurricane Season 09 for more details.