Every citizen in this country is part of a national emergency management system that is all about protection - protecting people and property from all types of hazards. Think of the national emergency management system as a pyramid with you, the citizen, forming the base of the structure. At this level, you have a responsibility to protect yourself and your family by knowing what to do before, during, and after an event.
Disasters disrupt hundreds of thousands of lives every year. Each disaster has lasting effects, both to people and property. You should know how to respond to severe weather or any disaster that could occur in your area - hurricans, flooding, extreme cold, or terrorism. Being prepared can reduce fear, anxiety, and losses that accompany disasters. Communities, families, and individuals should know what to do in the event of a disaster.