[Weekly Compilation of Presidential Documents Volume 43, Number 20 (Monday, May 21, 2007)]
[Page 653]
[Online from the Government Publishing Office, www.gpo.gov]

<R04>
Proclamation 8146--National Hurricane Preparedness Week, 2007

 May 18, 2007

 By the President of the United States

 of America

 A Proclamation

    Each year, millions of Americans living in coastal areas are faced 
with the hazards of hurricanes. As hurricane season approaches, National 
Hurricane Preparedness Week provides an opportunity to raise awareness 
of steps that can be taken to help protect our citizens, and their 
communities and property.
    Hurricanes can be devastatingly powerful and include storm surge, 
high winds, tornadoes, and flooding. To reduce the potentially deadly 
effects of these storms, it is imperative for people in hurricane-prone 
areas to prepare for each type of hurricane hazard. Taking the time to 
develop a family disaster plan, create a disaster supply kit, and stay 
aware of current weather situations can improve preparedness and help 
save lives.
    My Administration is committed to strengthening our Nation's ability 
to prepare for, respond to, and recover from these types of disasters. 
I've asked the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) to find ways 
to provide better assistance to those affected by catastrophe. FEMA has 
enhanced coordination between all levels of government during times of 
crisis and, along with the National Oceanic and Atmospheric 
Administration, is helping raise awareness about the dangers of 
hurricanes. In addition, the Department of Homeland Security and FEMA 
provide Americans with important emergency preparation checklists and 
valuable resources about what to do after a disaster at ready.gov and 
fema.gov. By working together, citizens and Federal, State, local, and 
tribal officials can help safeguard lives and protect property.
    Throughout the hurricane season, we are also grateful for the 
compassion, courage, and generosity of the volunteers and first 
responders who stand ready to help their neighbors in need. Their good 
hearts reflect the character of our Nation.
    Now, Therefore, I, George W. Bush, 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 20 through May 26, 
2007, as National Hurricane Preparedness Week. I call upon government 
agencies, private organizations, schools, and the media to share 
information about hurricane preparedness. I also urge all Americans 
living in vulnerable coastal areas of our Nation to take appropriate 
measures and precautions to protect themselves against the effects of 
hurricanes.
    In Witness Whereof, I have hereunto set my hand this eighteenth day 
of May, in the year of our Lord two thousand seven, and of the 
Independence of the United States of America the two hundred and thirty-
first.
                                                George W. Bush

 [Filed with the Office of the Federal Register, 8:45 a.m., May 22, 
2007]

Note: This proclamation will be published in the Federal Register on May 
23.