Yesterday marked the official end of the 2009 Atlantic Hurricane season which ran from June 1st to November 30th. Although it was a quiet season along the Atlantic coast, the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA), in a press statement, continues to urge citizens across the country to stay prepared, as disasters are not limited to hurricanes or a specific time of year — they can occur anytime, anywhere.

“This may have been a quieter than usual hurricane season in the Atlantic, but the fact remains that disasters can occur anytime, anywhere,” said FEMA Administrator Craig Fugate. “As we head into the winter season, if you haven't already done so, now is the perfect time to get your family together, make a family communications plan and take the steps to get prepared.”

Families can log on to www.ready.gov to learn about the few simple steps you can take to get prepared for any emergency. Some of those steps include, gathering a preparedness kit including a three-day supply of food and water, blankets and first-aid kits for your home and car, ensuring your family preparedness plan and contacts are up to date, rehearsing your plan and learning about emergency plans that have been established in your area by your state and local government. You can find contacts for your state and local emergency management officials by clicking www.ready.gov/america/local/.