We All Have a Role

Working with Your Community to Prepare for Natural and Manmade Disaster

People who have survived hurricanes, earthquakes, floods and other large-scale disasters will tell you that personal preparation makes a big difference.  For a family, it can mean the difference between life and death. For a business, it can mean the difference between continuity and bankruptcy.  The same is true when preparing for large-scale terrorist attacks, including weapons of mass destruction (WMDs).  Many people see WMDs as totally overwhelming. They think nothing can be done.  But this is wrong. People can do a great deal to prepare, especially if they prepare as a community.

The Commission prepared a brochure to help you understand what you can do, how to work with your community, and what to expect of your local and federal government.

Brochure (PDF)

Recommended Web Resources

Ready.gov
The best comprehensive resource on preparedness for you, your family and community.

“Are You Ready?” Federal Emergency Management Agency
FEMA’s most comprehensive source on individual, family, and community preparedness.

Emergency Management Accreditation Program

Resources on Biological Weapons
Overview fact sheet from ready.gov

“Terrorism, Preparing for the Unexpected,” American Red Cross
Site addressing biosecurity policy, Center for Biosecurity, University of Pittsburgh Medical Center

Resources on Nuclear Weapons
Overview fact sheet from ready.gov
Fact sheet on radiation emergencies, Center for Disease Control
“Are You Ready?  Nuclear Blast,” Federal Emergency Management Agency