On March 6, 2002 the Attorney General of the United States announced a number of initiatives to improve the ability of local communities to respond to changing preparedness needs. This effort is a part of a national challenge issued by President George W. Bush and Attorney General John Ashcroft to enhance local homeland security efforts and make preparedness a part of our daily lives.
"Everyday citizens can assist local law enforcement by playing an active role in their communities and neighborhoods," according to Attorney General Ashcroft.
The National Crime Prevention Council (NCPC) has launched a Public Service Announcement (PSA), United for a Stronger America, in partnership with the Department of Justice, the Crime Prevention Coalition of America, and the Advertising Council. The PSA campaign will suggest citizens get a Citizens' Preparedness Guide, which provides specific actions that individuals can take in their communities to reduce crime. A new component is the addition of discussions on counter-terrorism measures that citizens can use to join in the fight against terrorism. Outlined in the guide are five specific themes; protecting yourself and your family, protecting/comforting children, knowing and caring for neighbors, reporting crimes and suspicious activity, and emergency preparedness. The guide includes:
 | Tips on emergency preparedness at home, at work, when out and about, and in the community |
| Ideas on developing an evacuation plan |
| Tips on reporting emergencies or suspicious activities |
| Information on traveling safely at home and abroad |
| Ideas about voluntary civic activities that can strengthen communities |
| A list of resources, including phone and fax numbers and websites |
The CCHA Board encourages all members of our community to obtain a copy of this important publication. You may download a copy by clicking the following link:
If more convenient, you may also call (800) WE-PREVENT for a free copy.
There are several other publications that you may find helpful in developing your personal and family preparedness plans in a variety of areas, not limited to crime and homeland security.
Fairfax County has prepared a guide focusing upon all types of disaster and emergency situations, together with references and telephone numbers for our local support resources. This may be downloaded from:
Finally, the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) has developed a comprehensive family disaster planning and reference guide that discusses everything from winter driving to tornados. It can be downloaded from:
To view each of these publications, you will need a copy of the free Adobe Acrobat reader, which may be obtained from:
Thank you again for your support of our community. We trust you will find these publications useful.
The Clark's Crossing Homes Association Board