Wednesday, April 30, was the first National Day of Action, a new community-based campaign to build a more secure and resilient nation by getting people to understand what disasters could happen in their communities and to take action to increase their preparedness.

Sponsored by America’s PrepareAthon, the first National Day of Action focused on disasters that could occur in the spring including tornados, hurricanes, floods and wildfires.

”Taking a day to focus on being prepared for any emergency is good common sense,” said King County Councilwoman Kathy Lambert. “We never know when a natural disaster could strike our area and advance preparation could make a difference in someone’s survival. I encourage everyone to take a moment and at least review their own personal and family safety plans both for home and at work”

Over 5 million people signed up to take part in the National Day of Action, which consisted of three parts:

Be Smart: Know your hazards in your community. Guides to learn how to prepare can be downloaded at www.community.fema.gov/connect.ti/cfghome/grouphome

Take Part: Plan activities or take a few minutes to determine what you can do individually.

Prepare: Practice a drill or have a discussion about preparedness. Participation can include being a part of community emergency planning, hazard-specific drills, group discussions, and exercises.

More information on the National Day of Action can be found at www.community.fema.gov/connect.ti/cfghome/grouphome.