    [United States Statutes at Large, Volume 133, 116th Congress, 1st Session]
    [From the U.S. Government Publishing Office, www.gpo.gov]

    Proclamation 9919 of August 30, 2019

    National Preparedness Month, 2019

    By the President of the United States of America

    A Proclamation

    Since the early days of our Nation's history, Americans have always
    demonstrated perseverance and determination in the face of great
    challenges. Our Nation's efforts to be prepared for whatever lies ahead
    have contributed to our ability to consistently rise to the occasion
    when adversity strikes. During National Preparedness Month, we focus on
    promoting a culture of preparedness to make our homes, businesses,
    communities, and Nation more ready and resilient in the face of natural,
    adversarial, accidental, and technological hazards. We also honor and
    express our immense appreciation for the brave first responders who risk
    their lives to help others before, during, and after emergencies.

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    During the last 2 years, Americans have faced some of the most
    devastating natural disasters and emergencies in our Nation's history.
    From the U.S. Virgin Islands to the Hawaiian Islands, we have endured
    hurricanes, wildfires, floods, blizzards, earthquakes, tornadoes, and
    other extreme weather and perilous events. Our resolve as a Nation has
    been tested again and again. More than 50 people lost their lives after
    record rainfall and strong winds from Hurricane Florence caused
    catastrophic flooding and structural damage throughout the Carolinas.
    Hurricane Michael became the strongest hurricane ever to hit the Florida
    Panhandle, causing major damage to property and tragically taking more
    lives. And California's Camp Fire, which took the lives of more than 80
    people and destroyed thousands of homes, was the deadliest and one of
    the most destructive wildfires in more than a century.
    In spite of these tremendous challenges, the American people remain
    steadfast in their commitment to overcoming any adversity. While
    Federal, State, local, tribal, and territorial offices, as well as non-
    governmental organizations, coordinate with first responders and
    emergency personnel before, during, and after an emergency, the most
    integral part of an effective recovery following a disaster is
    preparedness at every level of government, in the private sector, and
    especially among our citizens. Maintaining readiness starts by having an
    emergency plan in place before disaster strikes. Signing up for alerts
    sent to mobile devices is crucial. These alerts provide critical early
    warnings, enabling people to get to safety before disaster strikes. An
    emergency fund can help cover unexpected costs for basic needs like
    food, water, lodging, gas, and insurance deductibles. It is also crucial
    to designate an out-of-town contact person that family members can call
    in case of an emergency. And parents and guardians should talk with
    their children about how to be prepared for unexpected emergencies at
    home or at school. The Federal Emergency Management Agency's Ready
    Campaign outlines simple, cost-effective, and life-saving measures you
    can take to prepare yourself, your family, and your property. Taking
    these simple steps can make a big difference during a crisis or natural
    disaster.
    This month, as Hurricane Dorian bears down on the Florida coast, I
    encourage all Americans to take action to be ready and resilient. While
    we cannot always know when the next disaster or emergency will confront
    us, we must remain ready. Together, we can ensure that all Americans
    have the information and resources they need to safeguard themselves and
    their loved ones from crisis or disaster.
    NOW, THEREFORE, I, DONALD J. TRUMP, 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 2019 as
    National Preparedness Month. I encourage all Americans, including
    Federal, State, tribal, and local officials, to take action to be
    prepared for disaster or emergency by making and practicing their
    emergency response plans. Each step we take to become better prepared
    makes a real difference in how our families and communities will respond
    and persevere when faced with the unexpected.
    IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have hereunto set my hand this thirtieth day of
    August, in the year of our Lord two thousand nineteen, and of

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    the Independence of the United States of America the two hundred and
    forty-fourth.
    DONALD J. TRUMP