Press Releases
9/10/2009 | READYPA CAMPAIGN EXPANDS ONLINE USING SOCIAL MEDIA, LAUNCHES FACEBOOK FAN PAGE
HARRISBURG — As part of National Preparedness Month 2009, the commonwealth has turned to one of the Internet's most popular social networking sites to help residents better prepare for when disaster strikes.
The Pennsylvania Emergency Management Agency has launched the ReadyPA.org Facebook fan page, which features facts, messages, event photos and information about ways to protect families, businesses and communities before and during a disaster.
"We live in information driven society and Facebook allows us to easily communicate important information in a timely manner," said PEMA Director Robert P. French.
Facebook is a free, user-friendly application that allows visitors to easily connect with people around the globe, view/share pictures, and watch videos. With ReadyPA.org's fan page, visitors will be able to read press releases and public service announcements and network with others sharing a similar interest in emergency preparedness.
Citizens are encouraged to become fans of the ReadyPA group by visiting www.facebook.com (you must register for an account) and searching "ReadyPA.org" to find the group profile page.
ReadyPA fans will receive up-to-date information on events, emergency preparedness announcements, and ways they can protect themselves and their loved ones in a disaster. Information will be posted through links on the Web site. Fans will also have access to seasonal messages and contact listings for state and local government agencies, where they can learn more about specific emergency management information in their communities.
"For ReadyPA, Facebook is a great approach to the campaign that allows Pennsylvanians to access information and learn more about ways to prepare individuals, families, pets and communities for any type of emergency," said Director French.
ReadyPA is a statewide campaign aimed at motivating Pennsylvanians to take action to prepare for a disaster. The campaign is supported by PEMA, Pennsylvania Citizen Corps, the Pennsylvania Department of Health, and volunteer organizations. It seeks to coordinate a cohesive statewide program and a call to action regarding emergency preparedness, encouraging citizens to take three simple steps: Be Informed, Be Prepared, and Be Involved.
Downloadable materials, including home and car emergency kit checklists and emergency plan templates, are available at www.ReadyPA.org and now also through 1-888-9-READYPA. Citizens can find information about getting involved in local emergency response efforts and other volunteer opportunities through the Web site or the toll-free line.