The U.S. Department of Homeland Security’s Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) is the U.S. government agency dedicated to helping the nation build, sustain and improve our capability to prepare for, protect against, respond to, recover from and mitigate all hazards.

While you study in the United States, it is important to be aware of and plan for potential emergencies,including natural disasters that may occur in your area and man-made catastrophes that could happen anywhere.

To get started, check out FEMA’s Ready campaign and its Spanish language version, Listo, to learn about the potential disasters that could strike your area and how to plan for the unexpected. To stay up-to-date with the latest news and emergency-planning tips, like Ready.gov on Facebook and follow its handle on Twitter.

Another way to learn about FEMA and its mission is to participate in National Preparedness Month, held each April and September. This month-long event asks everyone in the United States to take action and prepare for emergencies and natural disasters before they strike. Check your school's website or talk with your designated school official for more information about your school’s emergency plans so that you can be ready on campus.

Visit the FEMA website for a full list of its social media accounts, including Facebook, YouTube, LinkedIn and Twitter, and connect to the #NatlPrep conversation.

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