In the aftermath of Hurricane Katrina, disaster and emergency preparedness is on the mind of the nation.

Throughout the month of September, several state agencies will be spreading the message of  preparedness to the citizens of Missouri.

National Preparedness Month is a nationwide coordinated effort held each September to encourage Americans to take simple steps to prepare for emergencies in their homes, businesses and schools.

National Preparedness Month 2005 is being co-sponsored by the U.S. Department of Homeland Security and the American Red Cross.

Homeland Security and the American Red Cross are working with more than 190 national organizations and all 56 states and territories to highlight the importance of public emergency preparedness during September.  Events and activities across the nation will provide Americans with a variety of opportunities to learn more about emergency preparedness. 

Gov. Matt Blunt will hold a National Preparedness Month rally on the south lawn of the Capitol Building on Wednesday, Sept. 21. The event will allow visitors to learn more about volunteering opportunities and how they can be more prepared to face a variety of emergencies.  MoDOT's Mobile Emergency Response Operation Center will be on display for the public.

Above, MoDOT's Mobile Emergency Response Operation Center.

Click here to learn more

about the MEROC

Get a Kit - Get a kit of emergency supplies that will allow

you and your family to survive for at least three days in the event an

emergency happens.

Make a Plan - Plan in advance what you and your family will do

in an emergency.  Be sure to include an evacuation plan.

Be Informed - Learn more about different threats that could

affect your community and appropriate responses to them.

Get Involved - After preparing yourself and your family for possible emergencies, take the next step: get training in first aid and emergency response and get involved in  preparing your community. To find out about training and volunteer opportunities through your local Citizen Corps Council or American Red Cross Chapter, visit  www.citizencorps.gov

For a list of supplies and other

information go to these web sites:

www.ready.gov

www.redcross.org/preparedness