WHEREAS, “National Preparedness Month” creates a significant opportunity for every Vermonter to learn more about ways to prepare for all types of emergencies from potential terrorist attacks, to natural disasters; and

WHEREAS, emergency preparedness is the responsibility of every Vermonter; and

WHEREAS, all Vermonters can take a few simple steps – getting a kit, making a plan, and being informed – in order to make citizen preparedness a priority in every community; and

WHEREAS, the U.S. Department of Homeland Security and other federal, state, and local officials and the private sector are working to deter, prevent and respond to all types of emergencies; and

WHEREAS, these activities, along with active citizens, contribute to a level of preparedness that is critical to a secure homeland; and

WHEREAS, a citizen may review the Department of Homeland Security’s Ready campaign websites at www.ready.gov and www.listo.gov for more information.

NOW, THEREFORE, I, James H. Douglas, Governor, do hereby proclaim September, 2004 as

NATIONAL PREPAREDNESS MONTH

in Vermont and urge the people of Vermont to recognize the importance of preparing for all potential emergencies.

Given under my hand and the Great Seal of the State of Vermont this 31st day of August A.D. 2004.

James H. Douglas
Governor

By the Governor:
Parker M. Riehle
Secretary of Civil and Military Affairs