Sunday marks the third annual National Severe Weather Preparedness Week – a partnership between FEMA and NOAA to encourage all Americans to learn their weather risks and take steps to prepare.  During the week, FEMA’s Region V office will be distributing information about specific disaster risks throughout the area, financial considerations for protecting property if a disaster strikes, and important information about watches and warnings to stay safe before severe weather threatens local communities.  FEMA’s mission is to support our citizens and first responders to ensure that as a nation we work together to build, sustain, and improve our capability to prepare for, protect against, respond to, recover from, and mitigate all hazards.  For even more readiness information during Severe Weather Preparedness Week, follow us online at facebook.com/fema.  Individuals can always find valuable severe weather preparedness information at ready.gov/severe-weather or download the free FEMA app, available for Android, Apple or Blackberry devices.