Ready.gov, CDC Aid Preparation and Injury Prevention
The U.S. Department of Homeland Security's Ready Campaign is encouraging those who may be affected by Ike to have an emergency supply kit and a family emergency plan and to stay informed by listening to local authorities' advisories. "Americans did not see dramatic images of search and rescue activity with Hurricane Gustav because Louisianans were prepared and heeded the instructions of local officials by evacuating," said Homeland Security Secretary Michael Chertoff, adding that residents in likely affected areas for Ike should ensure that are "prepared with basic essentials to sustain themselves for up 72 hours."
The www.ready.gov Web site offers an emergency supply checklist (www.ready.gov/america/getakit/kit-print.html), a downloadable emergency plan (www.ready.gov/america/_downloads/familyemergencyplan.pdf), and links to local information. Ready also offers resources and tools to help business owners protect their businesses, employees, and assets. For information in Spanish, visit www.listo.gov. Individuals can call 1-800-BE-READY or 1-888-SE-LISTO for more emergency preparedness information. The Ready Campaign is now in its sixth year of operation. Launched in partnership with The Advertising Council, it has generated more than $756.5 million in donated media support.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention has a hurricane preparedness site at http://emergency.cdc.gov/disasters/hurricanes/ that provides tips on preparedness, injury prevention, and staying safe from hazards in a home when returning from an evacuation.