![[logo] US EPA](https://webarchive.library.unt.edu/eot2008/20080921141432im_/http://www.epa.gov/epafiles/images/logo_epaseal.gif){kind=logo}
Top Stories
President proclaims September as National Preparedness Month
The recent hurricanes have shown how planning and effective communication can save lives. A recent Presidential proclamation declares September as National Preparedness Month and asks Americans to take responsibility to be ready for emergencies.
EPA has a great deal of experience effectively managing responses to emergencies involving the release of oil or hazardous substances. Each year thousands of oil and chemical spills are reported. Most of these are handled by local police, firefighters and industry first responders. EPA responds to several hundred large spills a year. During major disasters, EPA may be called upon by FEMA to offer assistance to state and local governments in response to a release of hazardous materials from a major disaster or emergency.
Region 6 is continually evaluating and fine tuning our emergency response plans, as well has securing necessary materials so that we can help immediately. As Hurricane Gustav swept through the Caribbean, Region 6 began to put our plans into action. We quickly activated a hurricane Web site, sent people to survey storm damage, and began distributing information on topics such as safe drinking water, using portable generator safety and precautions to take when returning home.
The Department of Homeland Security's Ready campaign highlights preparedness steps, including having an emergency supply kit, making a family emergency plan and becoming informed about different types of emergencies. After preparing themselves and their families, Americans can take the next step and get involved in helping to prepare their communities for all types of emergencies. For more information, citizens may visit www.ready.gov and www.citizencorps.gov.