[United States Statutes at Large, Volume 127, 113th Congress, 1st Session]
[From the U.S. Government Publishing Office, www.gpo.gov]

 
PROCLAMATION 9009--AUG. 30, 2013

Proclamation 9009 of August 30, 2013

National Preparedness Month, 2013
By the President of the United States of America
A Proclamation
Time and again, America faces crises that test our readiness and
challenge our resolve--from natural disasters like hurricanes,
tornadoes, and floods to shootings, cyber incidents, and even acts of
terrorism. While my Administration is working tirelessly to avert
national tragedies, it is every American's responsibility to be
prepared. By planning for emergencies, individuals can protect
themselves and their families while also contributing to their
communities' resilience. During National Preparedness Month, we refocus
our efforts on readying ourselves, our families, our neighborhoods, and
our Nation for any crisis we may face.



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My Administration is committed to preparing our country for the full
range of threats. In the face of an emergency, we will continue to cut
through red tape and bolster coordination. At my direction, the Federal
Emergency Management Agency will launch a comprehensive campaign to
build and sustain national preparedness with private sector, non-profit,
and community leaders and all levels of government. The campaign will be
based on science, research and development, public outreach, and broad
participation. It will aim to inspire Americans of all ages to increase
their preparedness by moving from awareness to action.
Over this past year, ordinary Americans have stepped up in moments of
trial and tragedy to perform real acts of heroism. Despite the brave
actions of first responders across America, neighbors and friends are
often the first on the scene after an emergency, and circumstances can
call anyone to become a hero. This year's National Preparedness Month
theme, ``You Can Be the Hero,'' asks all Americans to ready themselves
to assist in case of emergency. Anyone can improve their preparedness by
making or reviewing emergency plans with their family and by building a
disaster kit with food, water, and essential supplies. Visit
www.Ready.gov or www.Listo.gov to see which types of disasters are most
likely for your area and learn more about what you can do to prepare.
This month, as we reflect on challenges to our communities, regions, and
our Nation, we continue to lend our support to recovery efforts, and we
honor our first responders by doing our part to build a more resilient
America.
NOW, THEREFORE, I, BARACK OBAMA, President of the United States of
America, by virtue of the authority vested in me by the Constitution and
the laws of the United States, do hereby proclaim September 2013 as
National Preparedness Month. I encourage all Americans to recognize the
importance of preparedness and work together to enhance our national
security, resilience, and readiness.
IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have hereunto set my hand this thirtieth day of
August, in the year of our Lord two thousand thirteen, and of the
Independence of the United States of America the two hundred and thirty-
eighth.
BARACK OBAMA