The Hill News

This has been a costly year for the United States and natural disasters. Tornados, hurricanes, even earthquakes in our nation’s capital. Lives have been lost, buildings destroyed, and nerves rattled.

Some have questioned whether this country really is ready for another disasterâ€"manmade or naturalâ€"and whether we have learned our lessons from experiences of the past. September is National Preparedness Month. Our country also just marked the tragic 10th anniversary of September 11. With any attack or disaster, we tend to hug our children a little tighter and be thankful for what they mean to us. And while we know we can’t promise them another attack won’t happen, we can do what it takes to be prepared to keep them safe, if an incident occurs.
 
Disasters can take on many formsâ€"whether they are the result of a tornado, flood, hurricane or acts of chemical or biological terrorismâ€" and it is imperative we respond quickly and effectively.  ! It is also crucial that we realize children are not just little adults, and that their needs in these situations are unique.  The federal government must fully integrate children into national preparedness efforts.

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