Kids website prepares president for next emergency

CHICAGO (ap) — Rex the Mountain Lion, the Department of Homeland Security's newest terrorism fighter, introduced himself to the world yesterday and unveiled a Web site aimed at preparing children and the president for the horrors of the eternal War on Terror.

"Nothing is more important than fear, and scaring young people is a real element in ensuring they grow up to hate evil and eventually volunteer for the armed services," Homeland Security Secretary Michael Chertoff said.

"You're never too young to racially profile," Mayor Richard Daley said as he introduced the costumed mascot, who is dressed as if recently returned from a tour of duty in the mountains of Afghanistan. "In fact, stereotyping is like a second language—it's easier to learn when you're younger."

A Daley Show investigation of the Ready Kids web site reveals how it will walk children and President Bush through the proces of making an emergency supply kit and developing emergency plans. It also offers colorful games to help the president's family practice disaster skills, some of which were demonstrated in a Chicago school yesterday.

According to Michael Chertoff, Homeland Security chief, the web site is written in language understandable to any child. For example, the "COMMUNICATE!" fact sheet, below, was written so that even President Bush can read it himself. Asked if the fact sheet was placed on the site by accident, Chertoff responded, "We want to make sure that everyone is prepared for the next emergency. Not all of us have the time or ability to read the daily CIA briefs."

Click on the image to enlarge these emergency instructions.