What is Ready.gov All About?

Terrorists are working to obtain biological, chemical, nuclear and radiological weapons, and the threat of an attack is very real. The Department of Homeland Security, along with personnel throughout the federal government and at organizations across America are working hard to strengthen our Nation's security. Whenever possible, DHS wants to stop terrorist attacks before they happen. All Americans should begin a process of learning about potential threats so we are better prepared to react during an attack. While there is no way to predict what will happen, or what your personal circumstances will be, there are simple things you can do now to prepare yourself and your loved ones.

Some of the things you can do to prepare for the unexpected, such as assembling a supply kit and developing a Family communications plan, are the same for both a natural or a man-made emergency. However, as you will see throughout the pages of Ready.gov, there are important differences among potential terrorist threats that will impact the decisions you make and the actions you take. With a little planning and common sense, you can be better prepared for the unexpected.

Ready.gov developed three steps to guide you through the preparation process:
	When preparing for a possible emergency situation, it's best to think first about the basics of survival: fresh water, food, clean air and warmth. Click here to download a pdf version of the checklist.
	You should plan in advance what you will do in an emergency. Be prepared to assess the situation, use common sense and whatever you have on hand to take care of yourself and your loved ones.
	For Americans, preparedness must now account for man-made disasters as well as natural ones. Knowing what to do during an emergency is an important part of being prepared and may make all the difference when seconds count.

Be prepared to adapt this information to your personal circumstances and make every effort to follow instructions received from authorities on the scene. Above all, stay calm, be patient and think before you act. With these simple preparations, you can be ready for the unexpected.

For more information see:
Ready.gov
U.S. Department of Homeland Security
American Red Cross
Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA)

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