Washington, D.C. - The U.S. Office of Personnel Management (OPM) is joining with over 1,700 Federal and state agencies and local organizations around the country in urging individuals and families to prepare for emergencies by participating in National Preparedness Month throughout September.

"OPM is pleased to join in a nationwide coordinated effort to help educate the public about preparing for emergencies in their homes, businesses and schools," said OPM Deputy Director Howard Weizmann at a neighborhood fair at the District of Columbia's Rawlins Park to kick-off the month-long observance.

Every year, hundreds of natural disasters - ranging from blizzards and wildfires to hurricanes, tornadoes and flooding - wreak havoc on families, homes and entire communities across America.

When unexpected natural or man-made emergencies occur, "Our greatest individual defense is preparedness," Weizmann said. He noted the goal of the national month highlighting preparedness is to encourage citizens into action by preparing their homes with emergency supply kits, making emergency plans, and identifying preparedness and response resources within their communities.

OPM and other agencies are taking steps to enhance readiness for potential emergencies by providing additional training for employees and issuing educational materials. OPM will also provide items to employees during September to upgrade "Sheltering in Place" kits, designed for use during emergencies when it would be safer for employees to remain temporarily housed in a Federal building. For more information about how to prepare for emergencies, the public is encouraged to visit www.ready.gov.

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