[United States Statutes at Large, Volume 123, 111th Congress, 1st Session]
[From the U.S. Government Publishing Office, www.gpo.gov]

 
PROCLAMATION 8386--MAY 26, 2009

Proclamation 8386 of May 26, 2009
National Hurricane Preparedness Week, 2009
By the President of the United States of America
A Proclamation

Each year, hurricanes threaten the safety of American families in
coastal and inland communities. These powerful storms can cause heavy
rainfall, high winds, tornadoes, and storm surges, which can in turn
bring severe flooding, power outages, damage to homes and businesses,
and loss of life.
Awareness and preparation are critical to surviving and recovering from
hurricanes. During National Hurricane Preparedness Week, I call on all
Americans-including private citizens and those working in government,
business, and the nonprofit sector-to plan ahead and help secure the
safety and property of those who face advancing storms.
Americans can take basic steps before a hurricane arrives. The Federal
Emergency Management Agency and the National Hurricane Center recommend
developing a family disaster plan, creating and maintaining a disaster
supply kit, securing one's home, and designating a safe place to go
during a storm. Throughout a storm, individuals should always remain
aware of weather conditions. More information on precautionary measures
is available at www.nhc.noaa.gov/HAW2/english/intro.shtml.
Organizations at the local, State, and national level play important
roles to protect Americans from the effects of hurricanes. Rescue and
relief organizations, the private sector, and the news media work to
meet demands that emerge before, during, and after a hurricane. Among
other services, they distribute safety information and help coordinate
relief activities. My Administration is committed to strengthening these
efforts and is working every day to prepare for hurricanes and their
potential impacts on everyone in the United States.
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.
NOW, THEREFORE, I, BARACK OBAMA, President of the United States of
America, by virtue of the authority vested in me by the Constitution and
laws of the United States do hereby proclaim May 24 through May 30,
2009, as National Hurricane Preparedness Week. 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.
IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have hereunto set my hand this twenty-sixth day of
May, in the year of our Lord two thousand nine, and of

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123 STAT. 3656

the Independence of the United States of America the two hundred and
thirty-third.
BARACK OBAMA