WASHINGTON -- United States Senator Mary L. Landrieu, D-La., chair of the Senate Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs Subcommittee on Disaster Recovery, today commented on the beginning of the sixth annual National Preparedness Month, which begins September 1.

Sen. Landrieu said:

"National Preparedness Month falls in the middle of hurricane season and so closely coincides with the anniversary of Hurricane Katrina. These events serve as reminders that we must take the time to reflect upon past storms and ultimately better prepare for future disasters. In Louisiana, the lessons learned from Hurricanes Katrina and Rita helped us to better prepare for future storms, and there was noticeable improvement in the government reaction to Hurricanes Gustav and Ike. But our preparation and response tactics are still not perfect.

"This month, I would like to encourage all Louisianians to closely study Louisiana's Get a Game plan initiative, which highlights the importance of preparing yourself and your family for future disasters. Take the time to participate in personal protective measures, such as cutting lose branches, clearing your storm drains of debris, or backing up important documents. Additionally, I would like to urge local businesses to do the same and to develop a method to contacting employees, customers, and suppliers in the case of an event to coordinate your plans for continuing operations.

"With the help of excellent leaders, Department of Homeland Security Secretary Janet Napolitano, HUD Secretary Shaun Donovan and FEMA Administrator Craig Fugate, I am committed to lead efforts to improve our government responses and to help teach American citizens about the importance of being prepared for storms and disasters. From urging local governments to develop state and local government evacuation and sheltering plans to establishing robust emergency operations centers and providing temporary housing and relief supplies to those in need, we are continuing to take concrete steps to ensure no American has to endure the tragedies experienced by Gulf Coast residents during Katrina and Rita."