National Hurricane Preparedness Week, 2005

Proclamation 7899 of May 10, 2005

National Hurricane Preparedness Week, 2005

By the President of the United States of America

A Proclamation

Each year from June through November, Americans living
on the Eastern seaboard and along the Gulf of Mexico
face an increased threat of hurricanes. These powerful
storms can create severe flooding, cause power outages,
and damage homes and businesses with their high winds,
tornadoes, storm surges, and heavy rainfall. The
effects of these storms can be devastating to families
and cause lasting economic distress. During National
Hurricane Preparedness Week, we call attention to the
importance of planning ahead and securing our homes and
property in advance of storms.

Last year, six hurricanes and three tropical storms hit
the United States, causing the loss of dozens of lives
and billions of dollars in damage. Across the United
States, Americans responded to these natural disasters
with extraordinary strength, compassion, and
generosity. Many volunteers donated their time and
talents to help with the cleanup, recovery, and
rebuilding of communities devastated by the hurricanes
and tropical storms.

To prepare for the 2005 hurricane season, I urge all
our citizens to become aware of the dangers of
hurricanes and tropical storms and to learn how to
minimize their destructive effects. Our Nation's
weather researchers and forecasters continue to improve
the accuracy of hurricane warnings, enabling residents
and visitors to prepare for storms. By working
together, Federal, State, and local agencies, first
responders, the news media, and private citizens can
help save lives and diminish the damage caused by these
natural disasters.

NOW, THEREFORE, I, GEORGE W. BUSH, President of the
United States of America, by virtue of the authority
vested in me by the Constitution and laws of the United
States, do hereby proclaim May 15 through May 21, 2005,
as National Hurricane Preparedness Week. I call upon
government agencies, private organizations, schools,
and the news media to share information about hurricane
preparedness and response to help save lives and
prevent property damage. I also call upon Americans
living in hurricane-prone areas of our Nation to use
this opportunity to learn more about protecting
themselves against the effects of hurricanes and
tropical storms.

IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have hereunto set my hand this
tenth day of May, in the year of our Lord two thousand
five, and of the Independence of the United States of
America the two hundred and twenty-ninth.

(Presidential Sig.)B