President Obama recently held a high-level briefing with top federal administrators to discuss preparations for the 2011 hurricane season. Homeland Security Secretary Janet Napolitano, FEMA Administrator Craig Fugate, NOAA Administrator Dr. Jane Lubchenco and National Hurricane Center Director Bill Read briefed the president on federal preparations for the upcoming hurricane season and FEMA’s whole communication approach to disaster management. The briefing also included non-profit, faith-based, and private sector partners.

During the meeting, the president stressed the importance of a team approach as well as engaging the entire nation in emergency preparedness, said a White House readout. The statement added that Obama told aides "to be in close contact and coordination with the governors, congressional delegations, and emergency managers in hurricane-prone states to ensure that they have the tools and resources needed to prepare for, respond to, and recover from any potential hurricanes this season."

Fugate posted a blog on hurricane preparedness, and said every citizen in a danger zone can do their part “by making sure you and your loved ones are prepared by having an emergency plan and kit,” he wrote. “Talk with your friends and neighbors and encourage them to do the same. And you can also take steps to get prepared for a hurricane at your workplace, so talk with your human resources manager about steps you can take.”

Participants included North Carolina Gov. Bev Perdue and members of her emergency management team, American Red Cross President Gail McGovern, National Voluntary Organizations Active in Disaster (NVOAD) Chair Reverend Mickey Caison and Verizon Wireless CEO Dan Mead.