STORY:
Y2K Booklet Released by Government

The U.S. government outlines plans to take as the millennium approaches

It’s called "Y2K and You" and the federal government is giving out the booklet for free to Americans. The purpose of the pamphlet is to alleviate Computer Y2K fears, and show what is- and is not needed-as the Year 2000 approaches.

The Y2K booklet outlines potential computer problems and how best to prepare. The pamphlet discusses the potential impact of Y2K bug on utilities, health care, financial and governmental services and travel.

The President’s Council on Year 2000 put together the brochure that asks readers not to overreact to millennium hype. The council advises American’s to prepare for Y2K in the way they prepare for a long weekend. It advises having half a tank of gas in cars and three-day’s worth of food and water at home. The council chairman, John Koskinen, says he doesn’t expect the U.S. to have significant computer problems related to the Y2K bug. Yet Koskinen says Americans should be aware of possible disruptions in services.

In the pamphlet, there is a checklist for readiness that suggests keeping copies of important records before and after January 1, 2000. It also recommends families check with appliance manufacturers to make sure their home electronics are Y2K compliant. Koskinen also reminds people to read notices sent out by power companies, supermarkets, and other community related businesses, this will give everyone a better understanding of what may happen when the year 2000 dawns.

The council prepared the booklet in cooperation with the Federal Emergency Management Agency and the Federal Trade Commission. In Britain a similar booklet was distributed to every person in the country at a cost of $15 million.

DATE: 11/9/99

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