Are We Ready?   By Wendi Williams, Content Editor The words homeland and security are synonymous with September 11. While it is unnecessary to recount the gory details of that fateful day, rest assured that many American adults and children question whether we are prepared to handle other possible terrorist attacks. Naturally, since homeland security efforts are still in their infancy stages, it's prudent to say that progress has been made, but we still have a long way to go. On October 1, 2003, President Bush signed the first homeland security bill at the newly formed Department of Homeland Security. The bill earmarks $37.6 billion to be used for aviation, port, and border security; the training of federal agents; emergency preparedness measures; the modernization of existing security infrastructures; the better use of science and technology for biodefense analysis and rapid prototyping for state and local emergency responders; and other important areas involving local, state, and national security efforts. The whole objective is to tighten our "security belts" so the country is better prepared to handle emergency situations. The reality is that world events have changed and our country like other warring nations must remain on some level of "alert." There is no doubt that biological, chemical, nuclear, or other threats are possible at any given moment. While we cannot be expected to safeguard our families against every pending disaster, we can devise plans to make our lives a bit easier during an emergency crisis. Helpful Emergency Tips Stock Emergency Supplies Stock up on fresh water, dried or canned foods, sleeping bags, warm clothing, flashlight & batteries, candles, toiletries, a radio, prescription medications, or a first-aid kit for starters. Develop a Communication Plan Talk to your family about how you will contact one another in an emergency. Develop Escape Routes Determine how you will escape from a fire, a natural disaster, or a terrorist attack. Familiarize Yourself With Local Safety Precautions Attend town meetings, workshops, or other public forums where safety issues are discussed. Know what safety measures your city or township has in place. Visit Online Sites Visit Web sites such as Ready.Gov, Extension Disaster Education Network, or the Alabama Homeland Security Department for current security information. Remember, it's better to put some safety measures in place, than none at all! References White House. FY 2004 budget fact sheet. Office of the Press Secretary. Retrieved on October 20, 2003. White House. President signs homeland security appropriations bill. Office of the Press Secretary. Retrieved on October 20, 2003. United States Department of Homeland Security. Ready.Gov. Retrieved on October 20, 2003.