DHS' ready.gov updated

The U.S. Department of Homeland Security launched an updated version of its Web site www.ready.gov Monday.

The updated site, part of its national public service advertising campaign "Ready Campaign," educates Americans on simple steps to take when responding to emergencies and comes in time for National Preparedness Month 2006 in September.

"All Americans have a responsibility to take steps now to be prepared for emergencies whether they are caused by nature or by man," said Homeland Security Undersecretary for Preparedness George W. Foresman. "At Ready.gov individuals can find information and resources that detail some of the basic things they can do to keep their family safe for emergencies large and small."

The site includes emergency preparedness resources, special information for pet owners, senior citizens and individuals with disabilities, as well as more state and local information.

So far the campaign's Web site has received more than 1.9 billion hits and 23 million unique visitors, according to the release.

Copyright 2006 by United Press International