CONTACT: Jo’Ellen G. Countee, (202) 727-2985

The District of Columbia Homeland Security and Emergency Management Agency (HSEMA) has launched its new blog, Be Ready DC, at http://bereadydc.blogspot.com and a Facebook group, Be Ready DC. The blog and Facebook group provide information about homeland security, emergency management and general preparedness.

Both of these sites give HSEMA the opportunity to use social media to reach thousands of citizens that it normally would not reach using traditional means. In addition, it provides citizens with greater access to the agency and an opportunity to ask questions, provide feedback, and make suggestions.

 “The use of social media tools such as blogs and Facebook pages is becoming more common across all levels of government,” said HSEMA Director Darrell Darnell. “With about 57 million Americans reading blogs, it is obvious that this form of communication appeals to a wide range of people. We want to use this communication tool to help us push our message out to the widest possible audience.”  

To participate in the blog, simply visit http://bereadydc.blogspot.com. To access the Facebook group, log on via www.facebook.com, click on "Groups" and enter “Be Ready DC” in the search box. HSEMA encourages residents, students, commuters, and visitors to visit the sites and actively participate.