United States Senator David Pryor plans to file the Emergency Response Act of 2009 that would make man-made disasters, public health emergencies (such as Swine Flu), terrorist attacks and more, eligible for federal emergency assistance. Pryor plans to amend the Robert T. Stafford Disaster Relief and Emergency Assistance Act of 1988 with his proposed bill. Pryor said,

“The Stafford Act not only triggers FEMA (the Federal Emergency Management Agency), but it also allows federal agencies to coordinate their efforts, give technical assistance, give advisory assistance … really work with local authorities and people in the private sector.”

The Stafford Act only covers natural disasters. The Emergency Response Act would include terrorist attacks, flu outbreaks and other public health emergencies.

Pryor’s effort to have the government provide assistance to local communities is an opportunity to think about your preparedness plans in your own home. Countless news reports show that no matter how well intentioned government officials are, they may not be able to give you assistance in the time of a crisis.

Take a look at the three areas Pryor wants to address with the Act, and think about how you’ll deal with man-made disasters, public health emergencies and terrorist attacks. Do you have a plan?

Source:

http://www.lonokenews.net/articles/2009/12/04/lonoke_democrat/news/nws05.txt