In the past year the United States, and many other areas around the world, have suffered devastating disasters causing fatalities, serious injuries and catastrophic damage. Recent tornados and in 2005, Hurricanes Katrina and Rita destroyed much of New Orleans and the gulf states.

While Kitsap County is not likely to experience a tornado, hurricane or major tsunami, the chance we will be rocked by a major earthquake is a real possibility. Most scientists agree it is not a matter of if, but of when.

Unfortunately, unlike a hurricane, it is difficult to predict when a major earthquake will occur. That's why it is so important to get prepared today. It is the best protection you can give yourself and your family. To make it easy for you to get the information you need, we have redesigned the KCDEM website to act as a centralized on-line resource center for preparedness information.

You will find information on a wide range of subjects from how to prepare your home and workplace, to caring for family members with special needs. If you take the time to get prepared for a major disaster, you will also be prepared for most any other type of emergency or hazardous situation.

The web site will be updated often and will include local as well as state and national news. If you want to prepare your neighborhood, business community or school staff, please visit our KPREP section. Visit our volunteer section, too, and learn how to become part of the KCDEM volunteer team.

Remember: it is your responsibility to get yourself and your family prepared. We want to make sure you have the resources you need to make this happen. Thank you for visiting our new website. We welcome your comments.

Phyllis Mann,
Director
Kitsap County Department of Emergency Management