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(February 19, 2003) -- Emphasizing preparedness, not fear, the Department of Homeland Security has launched a massive Citizen Preparedness Campaign, including a detailed web site telling Americans how to take prudent steps to prepare and protect themselves and their families in the event of a terrorist attack.

At a news conference today in Cincinnatti, Homeland Security Director Tom Ridge said, "The threat of terrorism forces us to make a choice. We can be afraid, or we can be ready. Today America's families declare, 'We will not be afraid. We will be ready!'"

As part of the national preparedness campaign, the Department of Homeland Security has launched "Ready.gov," which lists actions individuals can take to protect themselves, their families and their communities in the wake of an attack, or another emergency situation.

In the public interest, LBReport.com is posting a link to Ready.gov on our front page (www.lbreport.com).

In its introduction to the actions Americans are advised to take, Ready.gov states:

Terrorists are working to obtain biological, chemical, nuclear and radiological weapons and the threat of an attack is very real. Here at the Department of Homeland Security, throughout the federal government, and at organizations across America we are working hard to strengthen our Nation's security. Whenever possible, we want to stop terrorist attacks before they happen. All Americans should begin a process of learning about potential threats so we are better prepared to react during an attack. While there is no way to predict what will happen, or what your personal circumstances will be, there are simple things you can do now to prepare yourself and your loved ones.

Some of the things you can do to prepare for the unexpected, such as assembling a supply kit and developing a family communications plan, are the same for both a natural or man-made emergency. However, as you will see throughout the pages of Ready.gov, there are important differences among potential terrorist threats that will impact the decisions you make and the actions you take. With a little planning and common sense, you can be better prepared for the unexpected.

A Department of Homeland Security press release gives a quick overview of the measures as follows (we advise using the hyperlinks above or going to the web site so you can view details):

Emergency Supply Kit:

Start with three days worth of non-perishable food and water. Remember, even if your community is not directly affected by an attack, your life and daily routine may be disrupted. You may need to shelter at home for a couple of days. Roads and stores may be closed - electricity may be turned off - your water supply might be interrupted.

Add flashlights and a battery-powered radio to hear the latest instructions from local authorities. Don't forget extra batteries, a blanket, a first aid kit and medicines, and a manual can opener. Stash away duct tape and pre-measured plastic sheeting for future use. Experts tell us that a safe room inside your house or apartment can help protect you from airborne contaminants for approximately five hours - that could be just enough time for a chemical agent to blow away.

Family Communication Plan:

Make certain that everyone knows how to get in touch, and knows what the emergency plan is for different types of attacks. Every state, every community, every school and every workplace should have an emergency plan. Find out what that plan is and who is in charge. If your school or employer does not have a plan, volunteer to be part of a group to create one. Choose a meeting place, maybe a friend or relative's house, that's well away from your neighborhood. Keep your gas tank half-full. And always make sure you have a set of emergency and contact numbers posted by the phone.

Be Informed and Aware:

Log onto www.ready.gov or call 1-800-BE-READY. In the event of an emergency, listen to local authorities for instructions.