[Weekly Compilation of Presidential Documents Volume 44, Number 34 (Monday, September 1, 2008)]
[Pages 1158-1159]
[Online from the Government Publishing Office, www.gpo.gov]

<R04>
Proclamation 8282--National Preparedness Month, 2008

 August 26, 2008

 By the President of the United States

 of America

 A Proclamation

    During National Preparedness Month, we underscore the important 
responsibility Americans have to be ready for emergencies in our homes, 
businesses, and communities.
    The Department of Homeland Security's Ready campaign highlights 
preparedness steps, including having an emergency supply kit, making a 
family emergency plan, and becoming informed about different types of 
emergencies. After preparing themselves and their families, Americans 
can take the next step and get involved in helping to prepare their 
communities for all types of emergencies. For more information, citizens 
may visit www.ready.gov and citizencorps.gov.
    During National Preparedness Month, we also honor our Nation's 
police officers, firefighters, and emergency personnel for their hard 
work and commitment to protecting others. As first responders, they have 
demonstrated the true meaning of heroism by taking great risks to 
safeguard our communities, and all Americans are grateful for their 
efforts.
     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 September 2008 as 
National Preparedness Month. I call upon the people of the United States 
to recognize the importance of preparing for potential emergencies and 
to observe this month by participating in appropriate events, 
activities, and preparedness programs.
     In Witness Whereof, I have hereunto set my hand this twenty-sixth 
day of August, in the year of our Lord two thousand eight, and of the 
Independence of the United States of America the two hundred and thirty-
third.
                                                George W. Bush

 [Filed with the Office of the Federal Register, 8:45 a.m., August 28, 
2008]

[[Page 1159]]

Note: This proclamation was published in the Federal Register on August 
29. The Office of the Press Secretary also released a Spanish language 
version of this proclamation.