The National Association of Realtors(R) is joining with the U.S. Department of Homeland Security to launch National Preparedness Month 2006, which takes place throughout September. National Preparedness Month is a nationwide effort that encourages Americans to prepare for emergencies of all kinds. A special Web site, www.ready.gov, has been created to share helpful and important information.

"We believe in the importance of educating individuals on the potential life saving steps that can be taken to ensure the safety of families in the event of a natural disaster or potential terrorist threat," said Thomas M. Stevens, president of the National Association of Realtors(R). NAR is using its vast network of Realtors(R) and homeowners to help communicate the importance of preparedness - including having a family plan and having an emergency supply kit ready and on hand. "Realtors(R) are a strong voice for communicating the importance of being prepared in case of natural disasters," said Stevens.

In addition to joining DHS's efforts, NAR has taken other steps including the creation of a disaster planning task force made up of Realtors(R) from all across the country. NAR will hold a natural disaster symposium in Washington on September 18, when participants will discuss the need for a federal natural disaster insurance program, as well as the need to plan and be ready for such disasters.

Communities across the country are planning a variety of activities to draw attention to the issue of planning and being prepared. To find out more about what might be happening in your community, go to www.realtors.org and click on the National Preparedness Month banner.

The National Association of Realtors(R) , the leading advocate for homeownership, affordable housing and healthy communities, is using its voice to communicate the importance of individual preparedness before an emergency happens.

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