[United States Statutes at Large, Volume 129, 114th Congress, 1st Session]
[From the U.S. Government Publishing Office, www.gpo.gov]

 
Proclamation 9313 of August 31, 2015

National Preparedness Month, 2015

By the President of the United States of America

A Proclamation

Every year, communities across our country face emergencies--from
unforeseen natural disasters to deliberate acts--that test our Nation's
grit and challenge us to overcome tragedy. While my Administration is
working to keep all Americans safe, each of us can do our part.
Together, we can protect our families and help our communities by
planning for emergencies and for the unexpected. Every September, we
celebrate our Nation's spirit of resilience by rededicating ourselves to
the important task of being prepared in the face of any crisis.
Emergencies come in many forms--from house fires to accidents to
hurricanes--and can strike anywhere in America. We cannot always control
how, when, or where they occur, but we can prepare practical responses
before disasters strike. By discussing with our families, friends, and
neighbors how we will protect ourselves and our com-
munities, we can contribute to and share in a stronger, more resilient
society. The theme of this year's National Preparedness Month is
``Don't Wait. Communicate. Make Your Emergency Plan Today.'' This
month, I encourage all Americans to bolster their readiness in the event
of a crisis. To learn more about the disasters common to where

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you live, the resources available in your area, and how to prepare,
visit www.Ready.gov or www.Listo.gov.
When emergencies happen, our Nation must ensure that communities have
the support and resources they need to respond and recover. Since taking
office, I have worked hard to expedite the recovery and rebuilding
efforts in areas impacted by disaster. As we commemorate the 10th
anniversary of Hurricane Katrina, my Administration remains focused on
addressing the needs of survivors, investing in hard-hit neighborhoods,
and ensuring those affected are able to rebuild with greater confidence,
optimism, and resilience. My Administration has always been dedicated to
coordinating readiness and relief efforts between Federal agencies,
organizations, corporations, and local partners--because together, with
a united approach, we can lift up communities and help them emerge
stronger.
No challenge poses a greater threat to our future than climate change.
Cities along our Eastern seaboard now flood at high tide, and in the
West, wildfire season now lasts most of the year. Some communities are
parched by the worst drought in generations, while others have been
drenched by unprecedented rainfall. Our climate is changing quickly, and
it poses a threat to our Nation's safety and security. That is why we
must work toward a sound environment today, and why my Administration is
committed to pursuing clean energy through initiatives like the Clean
Power Plan. Additionally, as part of my Climate Action Plan, we are
committed to building infrastructure that can withstand more frequent
and powerful natural disasters and to supporting our communities--
including low-income, minority, and tribal communities--as they prepare
for these impacts. Together, by ensuring everyone understands the
dangers of climate change and by making responsible choices, we can
secure a cleaner, safer world for future generations.
On September 30, people from cities and towns in all corners of our
Nation will join with the Federal Government to take action as part of
America's PrepareAthon! I urge Americans to make a plan and participate
in this important opportunity to increase their own preparedness. During
National Preparedness Month, let us all renew our commitment to ready
ourselves, our families, and our communities for any challenge.
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 2015 as
National Preparedness Month. I encourage all Americans to recognize the
importance of preparedness and work together to enhance our resilience
and readiness.
IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have hereunto set my hand this thirty-first day of
August, in the year of our Lord two thousand fifteen, and of the
Independence of the United States of America the two hundred and
fortieth.
BARACK OBAMA