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What We’re Watching: 5/17/13

Author: 
Lars Anderson

At the end of each week, we post a "What We’re Watching" blog as we look ahead to the weekend and recap events from the week. We encourage you to share it with your friends and family, and have a safe weekend.

Severe weather forecast

For those of you in the Plains and the Midwest, the National Weather Service is forecasting potentially severe weather over the weekend and possibly into next week.  The storm system may bring large, damaging hail and strong winds, with tornadoes possible on Sunday and Monday.  Here’s a piece of the forecast from the National Weather Service: “It is important to note that due to the slow moving nature of this system, the areas affected through Monday may include locations that already had severe weather occur earlier in the period.”

If severe weather is possible in your area, remember to:

  • Closely follow your local forecast through the National Weather Service website, mobile site, or through local TV & radio reports
  • Listen to the direction of local officials.  If they advise people to find shelter because of an upcoming storm, do so immediately
  • Double check your family’s emergency kit to make sure you have supplies to sustain you and your family for at least 72 hours
  • Make sure your family knows what to do in case severe weather strikes – talk about where to take shelter at home, or how you can stay safe if you’re traveling

For more tips on staying safe before, during, and after severe weather, check out Ready.gov or FEMA’s mobile site.

Assistance to those affected by Illinois flooding & storms

Last week, President Obama declared a major disaster for 11 counties in Illinois, making federal assistance available to individuals and families impacted by the recent flooding and severe storms.  We’ve been working hard to encourage impacted residents to apply for assistance.

FEMA Disaster Survivor Assistance Teams are in neighborhoods damaged by the storms and floods, going door-to-door letting people know how to apply for assistance and answering any questions about the application process.  We’ve also opened several disaster recovery centers in impacted areas. These centers provide a place for people to talk face-to-face with staff from FEMA and our emergency response partners about the assistance that is available.

For the latest information on FEMA’s role in Illinois, check out the disaster-specific webpage. And if you’re on Twitter, check out our Region 5 Twitter account – it’s been posting great updates like:

After a #disaster, be on guard against #fraud. @fema doesn’t charge for info or registration. Register at disasterassistance.gov. #IL

— femaregion5 (@femaregion5) May 16, 2013

Friday 5/17 from 10am-2pm @fema will be at the Des Plaines Library, 1501 Ellinwood St, to help people register for aid. #IL @readyillinois

— femaregion5 (@femaregion5) May 17, 2013

.@fema Disaster Recovery Center open in #Grundy @ Morris Fire Dept. 2301 Ashton Rd Morris, #IL 9am-7pm, 7 days a wk. twitter.com/femaregion5/st…

— femaregion5 (@femaregion5) May 16, 2013

A challenge for “hackers”

I’m talking about hackers who hack for good!  I am very excited that FEMA is one of the 19 government partners for the National Civic Day of Hacking, coming up June 1-2. The event will bring together citizens, software developers, entrepreneurs and government agencies across the nation to solve challenges relevant to America’s neighborhoods, cities, and the country.  To give you a scale of the event, there are 87 locations across the U.S. that will participate and work on over 37 data sets and resources.  FEMA’s U.S. Fire Administration submitted its own challenge for the event – use our wealth of fire incident data and build an online visualization tool that brings the data to life. 

Check out the National Civic Day of Hacking website for more info and spread the word about our challenge!

Photos of the week

To round out the week, here's one of my favorite recent photos from the FEMA photo library:


Bay Head, N.J., May 14, 2013 --A construction crew rebuilds one of several concrete walkways for beach access in Bay Head as part of the rebuilding and recovery process following Hurricane Sandy. Bay Head, N.J., May 14, 2013 --A construction crew rebuilds one of several concrete walkways for beach access in Bay Head as part of the rebuilding and recovery process following Hurricane Sandy.

Bay Head, N.J., May 14, 2013 -- A construction crew rebuilds one of several concrete walkways for beach access in Bay Head as part of the rebuilding and recovery process following Hurricane Sandy.

Have a safe weekend!

Posted on Fri, 05/17/2013 - 17:05

What We’re Watching: 5/10/13

Author: 
Lars Anderson

At the end of each week, we post a "What We’re Watching" blog as we look ahead to the weekend and recap events from the week. We encourage you to share it with your friends and family, and have a safe weekend.

Hurricane Season – Get Prepared

With the June 1 start of hurricane season just around the corner, and in preparation for National Hurricane Preparedness Week, we want to encourage you and your family members to begin to think about how you can prepare.

One way we’re encouraging folks to prepare is by signing up to receive hurricane safety tips directly to your mobile phone. By texting HURRICANE to 43362 (4FEMA), you can sign up to receive bi-weekly hurricane safety tips. These tips are friendly reminders of the steps you can take to prepare your family and home from a hurricane.

There are other safety tip lists you can sign up for too. Head over to www.fema.gov/text-messages or http://m.fema.gov/text-messages (on your mobile phone) for more subscription options as well as a list of commands you can use when texting 43362.

Awards Period Open for 2013 Individual & Community Preparedness Awards

The Individual & Community Preparedness awards recognize outstanding individuals, organizations, Citizen Corps Councils, and programs working to make our communities safer, stronger and better prepared for any disaster or emergency event.

Whether it's an individual or a faith-based, non-profit, private sector, community-based, or tribal organization, everyone makes a difference in our community. Acknowledge the work you or someone you know has done to build a more resilient nation and submit an application today.

The application deadline is June 5, 2013. Visit www.ready.gov/citizen-corps-awards for more information or to download an application.

Save the Date – FEMA Think Tank

Join Deputy Administrator Rich Serino for the next FEMA Think Tank conference call on May 28, 2013. This month’s call will be held in New York City, in partnership with UNICEF, and will focus on disaster survivor stories and international emergency worker experiences to encourage a more disaster-survivor-centric approach to emergency management at every level.

If you’ve been impacted by a disaster, or know someone who has, visit our online forum to contribute ideas and comments for discussion on the upcoming call.  Visit www.fema.gov/think-tank for more details about this month’s call or to learn more about the FEMA Think Tank.

Photos of the Week

And to wrap up the week, here are a few of our favorite photos:

West, Texas, May 5, 2013 -- Disaster survivors and first responders are served a special meal at a local church. FEMA workers also attended the event to answer questions about the types of disaster assistance available. Norman Lenburg/FEMA

West, Texas, May 5, 2013 -- First responders line up for a special meal at the First Baptist Church. Federal Emergency Management Agency workers also attended the event to answer questions about the types of disaster assistance available to survivors of the April 17 fertilizer plant explosion.West, Texas, May 5, 2013 -- First responders line up for a special meal at the First Baptist Church. Federal Emergency Management Agency workers also attended the event to answer questions about the types of disaster assistance available to survivors of the April 17 fertilizer plant explosion.

West, Texas, May 5, 2013 -- Disaster survivors and first responders are served a special meal at the First Baptist Church. Federal Emergency Management Agency workers also attended the event to answer questions about the types of disaster assistance available.West, Texas, May 5, 2013 -- Disaster survivors and first responders are served a special meal at the First Baptist Church. Federal Emergency Management Agency workers also attended the event to answer questions about the types of disaster assistance available.

Have a safe weekend!

Posted on Fri, 05/10/2013 - 16:01

What We’re Watching: 5/3/13

Author: 
Lars Anderson

At the end of each week, we post a "What We’re Watching" blog as we look ahead to the weekend and recap events from the week. We encourage you to share it with your friends and family, and have a safe weekend.

Springtime severe weather

The variety of weather we’ve seen across the U.S. this week has been amazing. Every day there have been wildfires, floods, blizzards, droughts, and thunderstorms.  We continue to support our state, local and tribal emergency management partners as needed – and you can do your part by making sure you’re prepared for whatever weather spring throws at you.

  • Wildfires
    • If your home or business is in an area susceptible to wildfires, create a 30 to 100 foot “safety zone” around your home. Within the zone, remove leaves, brush, or any flammable vegetation.  And be sure to keep gasoline cans, oily rags, or other flammable materials away from the base of buildings
    • Have an evacuation plan. If local officials give the order for your neighborhood or area to evacuate – don’t stay.  If you have pets, make sure to bring them with you.   
    • Don’t drive to the fire – give emergency crews ample space to do their work and stay off access roads that are frequently used by firefighters or emergency vehicles.
    • Get more tips at www.Ready.gov/wildfires or on your phone at http://m.fema.gov/wildfires
  • Floods
    • Don’t drive or walk through flood waters, they could be contaminated with gasoline, oil, or raw sewage.
    • When water levels are high, stay from streams, drainage channels, canyons and other areas that could flood suddenly
    • Don’t try to drive through flooded roads. The depth of water is not always obvious.  Remember, turn around, don’t drown.
    • More flood safety tips online at www.Ready.gov/floods and on your phone at http://m.fema.gov/floods
  • Blizzards and snow
    • Be extra cautious while driving. Travel during the day and make sure to have some emergency supplies in your vehicle.  Things like extra blankets, road flares, a shovel, a battery-powered radio, and extra food and water will come in handy should you get stuck.
    • Stay up to date on your local conditions. Weather.gov is a great place to get your weather forecast each day, or tune in to local radio or TV for an update.
    • Two sites to bookmark for winter safety tips: www.Ready.gov/floods for your computer and http://m.fema.gov/winter-storms-extreme-cold for your phone

Sandy recovery continues to be a full team effort

sandy damaged home

CAPTION: Breezy Point, N.Y., March 22, 2013 -- Residents of this Queens neighborhood are rebuilding their homes damaged by Hurricane Sandy. This house is in the process of being elevated above the new flood level to prevent damage from future storm surges and flooding.

In case you missed it earlier this week, Mike Byrne, FEMA’s lead in New York after Hurricane Sandy, offered his thoughts on the progress made six months after the storm. His key message: the work is far from over, and a full recovery will continue to require a full team effort.  Here is some of what Mike had to say (you can find the full article here):

In the immediate aftermath of the storm, thousands were without power, the subways and tunnels were filled with water; many hospitals shut down, including Bellevue, Coney Island and NYU Langone hospitals; and thousands of homes were unlivable.

But this is New York. We bounce back. State, tribal and local governments have joined forces with a host of federal agencies, as well as businesses, volunteers and survivors, to get things up and running again. oday the signs of recovery can be seen across Long Island and the city, and more than $6.6 billion in federal assistance has been distributed to New York communities and survivors.

Are we done? No. This is just the beginning.

Now we turn to the next phase in recovery. Just as we brought together every sector of the federal government immediately after the storm, in the months that followed, we've brought together a roster of partners to help rebuild New York.

Video to share this weekend

As I mentioned earlier, spring has arrived and brought warmer weather to most of the country.  If you’re anything like me, I always look forward to firing up the grill as soon as I can stand to be outside.  Grills are great, but misusing outdoor cooking equipment is the cause of many home fires each year.  So check out this video from FEMA’s U.S. Fire Administration to make sure you’re a grill master that’s also an expert on preventing grill-related fires:

Have a safe, enjoyable weekend!

Posted on Fri, 05/03/2013 - 14:56

What We’re Watching: 4/26/13

Author: 
Lars Anderson

At the end of each week, we post a "What We’re Watching" blog as we look ahead to the weekend and recap events from the week. We encourage you to share it with your friends and family, and have a safe weekend.

Monitoring Flooding in Midwest

We continue to closely monitor the impacts of severe weather and current and possible flooding conditions in several Central U.S. and Midwest states. We encourage all residents in potentially affected areas to follow the direction of local officials and keep informed of local conditions by monitoring local radio or TV stations for updated weather and emergency information.  And remember, if local authorities order an evacuation, leave immediately; follow evacuation routes announced by officials, and stay away from coastal areas, river banks and streams.

Driving through a flooded area can be extremely dangerous. When you are in your car, look out for flooding in low lying areas, at bridges, and at highway dips. As little as six inches of water may cause you to lose control of your vehicle.  Remember – turn around, don’t drown.

Those in areas affected by the heavy rains and/or in areas anticipating high river crests, familiarize yourself with the terms that are used to identify a flood hazard and discuss with your family what to do if a flood watch or warning is issued.  Here are some terms to familiarize yourself with:

  • Flood Watch: Flooding is possible. Tune in to NOAA Weather Radio, commercial radio, or television for information 
  • Flash Flood Watch: Flash flooding is possible. Be prepared to move to higher ground; listen to NOAA Weather Radio, commercial radio, or television for information. 
  • Flood Warning: Flooding is occurring or will occur soon; if advised to evacuate, do so immediately. 
  • Flash Flood Warning: A flash flood is occurring; seek higher ground on foot immediately. 

You can visit www.Ready.gov/floods for more information and safety tips on what to do before, during and after a flood.

In the News

FEMA Deputy Administrator Rich Serino was on the ground in his hometown of Boston, Massachusetts, last week during the bombing attacks at the Boston Marathon. Today, he shared his perspective on the community-wide effort to respond to last week's tragic bombings in an op-ed for the Boston Globe.

Here’s a little of what he had to say:

Growing up in Boston, you know that Patriot’s Day and the Boston Marathon come together to create a day like no other. We pause to celebrate our heritage, the city shines and our streets fill with millions of residents and visitors from around the block and around the world. For most of my life, I worked those same streets for Boston EMS, ending a 36-year career as chief of the department in 2009.

There were many nights I went home proud of the men and women of Boston EMS, but I was never more proud of them and the residents of my town, than I was last week.

While in one moment we saw terror and brutality, in the next we saw our community’s love and compassion. We saw our EMTs, paramedics, police officers, and firefighters spring into action and perform their jobs heroically.

Read the rest of Deputy Administrator’s Serino’s perspective.

In Case You Missed It

Inspiration was also on hand this week.  The White House held its Champions of Change ceremony honoring people and organizations directly involved in response and recovery efforts following Hurricane Sandy. These hidden heroes implemented innovative, collaborative solutions to meet the unique needs of communities and neighborhoods as they worked to rebuild after the devastating effects of this disaster.

Washington, D.C., April 24, 2013 -- White House Champions of Change event which honored people and organizations directly involved in response and recovery efforts following Hurricane Sandy. These hidden heroes implemented innovative, collaborative solutions to meet the unique needs of communities and neighborhoods as they worked to rebuild after the devastating effects of this disaster.

CAPTION: Washington, D.C., April 24, 2013 -- This White House Champions of Change event honored people and organizations involved in response and recovery efforts following Hurricane Sandy.
 

Washington, D.C., April 24, 2013 -- This White House Champions of Change event honored people and organizations directly involved in response and recovery efforts following Hurricane Sandy. These hidden heroes implemented innovative, collaborative solutions to meet the unique needs of communities and neighborhoods as they worked to rebuild after the devastating effects of this disaster.

CAPTION: Washington, D.C., April 24, 2013 -- White House Champions of Change stand for a picture with FEMA Administrator Craig Fugate.
 

We also live-tweeted the event and I wanted to share two tweets that stuck out to me:

Congratulations to these men and women for their dedication and commitment to serve their fellow neighbors during their time of need.

Have a safe weekend!

Posted on Fri, 04/26/2013 - 15:13

What We’re Watching: 4/12/13

Author: 
Dan Watson

At the end of each week, we post a "What We’re Watching" blog as we look ahead to the weekend and recap events from the week. We encourage you to share it with your friends and family, and have a safe weekend.

Monitoring Severe Weather

We continue to closely monitor the severe weather, including dangerous winds, tornadoes and severe winter weather that affected parts of the Central U.S., Midwest and Southeast, last night and Wednesday. We encourage those in affected areas to continue to monitor local radio or TV stations for updated emergency information, and to follow the instructions of state, tribal and local officials. 

If you haven’t already, now is the time to get prepared for severe weather.  Visit www.ready.gov to learn more about what to do before, during, and after severe weather.

Here are a few safety tips to keep in mind should severe weather occur in your area:

  • Familiarize yourself with the terms that are used to identify a tornado hazard.
    • A tornado watch means a tornado is possible in your area.
    • A tornado warning is when a tornado is actually occurring, take shelter immediately.
  • Ensure your family preparedness plan and contacts are up to date and exercise your plan.  Learn about the emergency plans that have been established in your area by your state, tribal or local government, and ensure your home and car are prepared for the severe weather.
  • If you haven’t already, now is the time to get prepared for tornadoes and other disasters. Determine in advance where you will take shelter in case of a tornado warning:
    • Storm cellars or basements provide the best protection. If underground shelter is not available, go into an interior room or hallway on the lowest floor possible.
    • In a high-rise building, go to a small interior room or hallway on the lowest floor possible. Stay away from windows, doors and outside walls. Go to the center of the room. Stay away from corners because they attract debris.
    • Vehicles, trailers and mobile homes are not good locations to ride out a tornado. Plan to go quickly to a building with a strong foundation, if possible.
    • If shelter is not available, lie flat in a ditch or other low-lying area. Do not get under an overpass or bridge. You are safer in a low, flat location.

We will continue to monitor weather conditions as these storm systems move across the East Coast and will provide updates as necessary.

National Tribal Consultation Call

Over the past several weeks, we’ve hosted regional tribal consultation calls with tribal leadership, their organizations and stakeholders to present information regarding changes to how the federal government provides disaster assistance to tribes and how we can better meet the unique needs of Indian Country after disasters. We’ve gathered valuable comments and insights from our tribal partners related to declarations procedures and this process is culminating in a National Tribal Consultation call next week to further discuss improvements to the disaster assistance process.

Join us on Thursday, April 18 at 3:00 p.m. EDT for a National Tribal Consultation conference call and provide your comments on:

Here’s the call-in information:

  • Date & Time: Thursday, April 18 at 3:00 p.m. EDT
  • Number: 888-708-5699
  • Passcode: 1601121

You can also provide your ideas and comments by visiting FEMA’s online collaboration community, or by sending us an e-mail at tribalconsultation@fema.dhs.gov.  

In case you missed it, Administrator Fugate recently blogged:

When you're tackling a new and challenging topic, starting from a solid foundation is crucial to success.  Right now, there is an opportunity to change how the federal government provides disaster assistance and we’re looking for tribal leaders to help set a solid foundation for those changes…

We hope that you can take part in this opportunity to shape disaster assistance programs and processes more effectively.

Youth Preparedness Council

It’s not too late to submit an application or nominate a young leader in your community for our Youth Preparedness Council.  FEMA’s Youth Preparedness Council provides an opportunity for young leaders to share ideas and solutions to strengthen the nation against all types of disasters.

Here’s a short video from U.S. Senator Jack Reed from Rhode Island encouraging teenagers to apply to serve on the council.

Remember, the deadline to submit an application or nomination is next Friday, April 19.  So head over to Ready.gov/youth-preparedness for more information or to download an application today!

Posted on Fri, 04/12/2013 - 13:50

What We’re Watching: 3/29/13

Author: 
Lars Anderson

At the end of each week, we post a "What We’re Watching" blog as we look ahead to the weekend and recap events from the week. We encourage you to share it with your friends and family, and have a safe weekend.

Hurricane Sandy Updates

bulldozer picking up debris

CAPTION: Breezy Point, N.Y., March 22, 2013 -- U.S. Army Corps of Engineers continues to work with local communities to remove debris from houses destroyed by Hurricane Sandy. More than 5.5 million cubic yards have been removed so far.

Recovery efforts continue at full speed in areas impacted by Hurricane Sandy.  If you or someone you know wants to know the latest on the recovery, here are a few online resources from FEMA and the impacted states:

In case you missed it…

  • We’re looking for young leaders interested in making a change and serving on FEMA’s Youth Preparedness Council. Youth leaders (ages 12-17) from across the U.S. who are dedicated to public service, who are making a difference in their communities, and who want to expand their impact as national advocates for youth disaster preparedness are encouraged to apply. You can also nominate someone you think deserves to serve on this distinguished council.

    The deadline to submit an application or nomination is April 19, 2013.  Visit Ready.gov/youth-preparedness for more information or to download an application today!
  • As part of the Department of Homeland Security’s 10-year anniversary, Administrator Fugate discussed a few of the milestones at FEMA and the agency’s priorities moving forward.  In part one, he answers “How has FEMA changed in the last few years?” and “What are a few of the milestones that mark those changes?”  Part two talks about building capacity at a national scale and the agency’s future priorities. If you’re an emergency manager or have an interest in public safety, both posts are a great read!

One volunteer’s story

Earlier this week, an AmeriCorps volunteer wrote about her experience helping those affected by Sandy; it’s a great short story that shows how disasters can leave an impact long after the event has passed.  Here’s a small section from her full story:

In weeks of mucking and gutting, I met homeowners who are ready to let it all go and move on and I’ve also met homeowners who are trying so hard to salvage even the moldiest items. There are residents who cannot even express the magnitude of their appreciation for our services.  We have worked with hoarders, do-it-yourselfers, first-time homeowners and one woman living in a house passed down from the 40’s. Through it all, we have spent long hours and many days working with one major goal in mind - bringing families home.

With that, have a great and safe weekend!

Posted on Fri, 03/29/2013 - 12:12

What We're Watching: 3/22/13

Author: 
Lars Anderson

At the end of each week, we post a "What We’re Watching" blog as we look ahead to the weekend and recap events from the week. We encourage you to share it with your friends and family, and have a safe weekend.

Flood Safety Awareness Week Recap

All week long we’ve shared flood safety tips, stories about the dangers of flooding, and reminders of the importance of being prepared for all types of floods as part of Flood Safety Awareness Week.  Flooding is the most common and costly natural disaster in the U.S. and just a few inches of water can cause tens of thousands of dollars in damage.  So be sure your family is prepared for the different types of flooding and know what to do by visiting Ready.gov/floods for safety tips and more information on preparing for floods.

It’s equally important to make sure your home is protected against flooding, even if you don’t live in a flood zone. Remember, it typically takes 30 days for a flood insurance policy to take effect – so get flood insurance before you need it! For more information on the ins and outs of flood insurance, visit FloodSmart.gov.

And in case you didn’t get a chance to read them, here are our blogs from the week:

Take a look at the Spring Flood Outlook published by our friends at NOAA.

Looking for youth to serve on our Youth Preparedness Council

Our Individual and Community Preparedness Division is looking for youth leaders to serve on FEMA’s Youth Preparedness Council. The council is comprised of youth leaders from across the U.S. who are dedicated to public service, who are making a difference in their communities, and who want to expand their impact as national advocates for youth disaster preparedness. This is a unique opportunity for young leaders to serve on this highly distinguished national council; to complete a self-selected youth preparedness project; to voice their opinions, experiences, ideas, solutions, and questions on youth disaster preparedness with the leadership of FEMA and national organizations working on youth preparedness; and to participate in the Youth Preparedness Council Summit.

If you know someone between the ages of 12 and 17 who wants to make a difference in their community, have contributed to youth disaster preparedness in their community or have lived through a disaster and wants to share their experiences, nominate them for the Youth Preparedness Council today!

Photo of the Week

Staten Island, N.Y., March 16, 2013 -- FEMA's Disaster Recovery Centers (DRC) continue to register Hurricane Sandy survivors as the March 29th deadline for registration approaches. The DRC's offer information on repairing homes and businesses, financial, tax and legal help as well as other state and local advice.

CAPTION: Staten Island, N.Y., March 16, 2013 -- FEMA's Disaster Recovery Centers (DRC) continue to register Hurricane Sandy survivors as the March 29th deadline for registration approaches. The DRC's offer information on repairing homes and businesses, financial, tax and legal help as well as other state and local advice.

 

Posted on Fri, 03/22/2013 - 13:23

What We're Watching: 3/15/13

Author: 
Lars Anderson

At the end of each week, we post a "What We’re Watching" blog as we look ahead to the weekend and recap events from the week. We encourage you to share it with your friends and family, and have a safe weekend.

Flood Safety Awareness Week

Next week, we’re teaming up with NOAA to bring you National Flood Safety Awareness Week. Floods are one of the most common hazards in the U.S., and while spring brings the promise of warm weather and longer days, it also brings a variety of threatening conditions like heavy rain, flash flooding, and rapid snowmelt (for those of us who received any) that can increase your flood risk.

So be sure to follow the blog and our social media channels March 17 -23 for flood safety information and tips along with the steps individuals, families, and businesses can take to protect their families and homes from flooding.  But you don’t need to wait until next week for the info – you can visit Ready.gov/floods today for the rundown on flood safety, as well as FloodSmart.gov for information on the benefits of flood insurance.

Internship Opportunities for NYC Graduate Students

I wanted to highlight an opportunity for graduate students seeking internship opportunities in the New York City area.

The John D. Solomon Fellowship for Public Service is the first student fellowship in New York City government devoted specifically to emergency management. The program provides graduate students in New York City-area universities a nine-month paid fellowship (approximately 20 hours per week) in an agency of New York City government, including NYC Office of Emergency Management. If you or someone you know are interested, be sure to apply online.

The application period closes on April 1, so be sure to apply today. For more information, visit the NYC Office of Emergency Management website.

Share your thoughts on these topics

In case you missed it, there’s still time to share your thoughts and ideas on our new topics on our collaboration site:

  • Creating Model Emergency Management Plans – We’re looking for your input on what schools, institutions of higher education, and houses of worship should consider when developing and implementing a comprehensive emergency management plan and how students and staff can best be trained to follow them. Whether you’ve played an active role in developing your community’s local emergency management plans or simply have ideas on how best to do this, your ideas will help others learn from your success.
  • Seeking input from Indian tribal governments – We’re seeking your thoughts on the procedures for Indian tribal governments to request emergency and major disaster declarations. As part of an amendment to the Stafford Act, federally recognized Indian tribal governments now have the option to make a request directly to the President for a Federal emergency or major disaster declaration, or to seek assistance, as they do presently, under a declaration for a State.  We’re looking for your feedback on how these requirements and factors may or may not be appropriate as applied to requests from Indian tribal governments during the pilot program.  Your thoughts will be influential in the development of the pilot program to process declaration requests from Indian tribal governments.

Visit our online collaboration site to share your thoughts and comments on these two topics or any of our other open topics.

Photo & Video of the week

Belmar and Lake Como St. Patrick's Day Parade

Despite the devastation caused by Hurricane Sandy, the New Jersey Towns of Belmar and Lake Como got together to hold their 40th St. Patrick’s Day Parade.

Far Rockaway, N.Y., March 11, 2013 -- The FEMA for Seniors program visited the Young Israel Wavecrest & Bayswater Senior Center. Community Relations Specialist Lloyd Weston gave a presentation on disaster preparedness and discussed the importance of preparing a document folder and disaster supply kit.
CAPTION: Far Rockaway, N.Y., March 11, 2013 -- The FEMA for Seniors program visited the Young Israel Wavecrest & Bayswater Senior Center. Community Relations Specialist Lloyd Weston gave a presentation on disaster preparedness and discussed the importance of preparing a document folder and disaster supply kit. K.C.Wilsey/FEMA

Happy St. Patrick’s Day… And may the luck of the Irish be with you!

Have a safe weekend!

Posted on Fri, 03/15/2013 - 16:05

What we’re watching: 3/8/13

Author: 
Lars Anderson

At the end of each week, we post a "What We’re Watching" blog as we look ahead to the weekend and recap events from the week. We encourage you to share it with your friends and family, and have a safe weekend.

Severe weather safety from all angles

Our blog and social media sites have been brimming with severe weather safety tips, stories, and reminders this week as part of National Severe Weather Preparedness Week.  Guest bloggers took over our blog all week long, offering their perspectives on how people can be a force of nature in their community and share severe weather safety.  Here’s a look back at their posts:

Looking for your feedback on our collaboration community

Our collaboration community had a few new topics posted earlier today, so take a look and share your thoughts & ideas on:

  • Creating Model Emergency Management Plans – We’re asking for your input on what should be included in model emergency management plans for schools, institutions of higher education, and houses of worship, and how students and staff can best be trained to follow them.  The President directed the Department of Homeland Security, Education, and Health and Human Services to create model emergency plans for these groups as part of his plan to reduce gun violence.
  • Seeking input from Indian tribal governments - The Sandy Recovery Improvement Act of 2013, signed by the President Tuesday, Jan. 29, 2013, included an important amendment to the Stafford Act.  Federally recognized Indian tribal governments now have the option to make a request directly to the President for a Federal emergency or major disaster declaration, or to seek assistance, as they do presently, under a declaration for a State.  We’re asking Indian tribal governments for their thoughts and comments on how these requirements and factors may or may not be appropriate as applied to requests from Indian tribal governments during the pilot program. The input provided will inform the development of the pilot program to process declaration requests from Indian tribal governments.

In the spotlight: FEMA app and the role of social media

I also wanted to highlight two stories from this week that referenced FEMA’s smartphone app and social media use:

  • Information Week recently published a story listing out some of the smartphone apps available through federal agencies, and we’re proud the FEMA app is on the list!  Check out the quick write up, along with some of the other cool apps from other federal agencies like NASA, the U.S. State Department, the White House, and more.
  • The importance of social media in disaster response has rapidly grown over the past few years.  In a story posted earlier today, Emergency Management Magazine looks back at Hurricane Sandy and how social media played a part in reaching those impacted by the storm.  The article mentions the emphasis FEMA puts on providing timely, relevant information on its website and social media channels before, during, and after emergencies – one example mentioned is the Rumor Control initiative done through fema.gov, m.fema.gov (our mobile site), and our Facebook & Twitter accounts.

In Case You Missed It: Podcasts in iTunes

For those iTunes users out there, you can now download several of our regular updates.  FEMA Law Talk features FEMA’s Chief Counsel, covering legal topics related to emergency management, FEMA programs, and how legal issues impact disaster response and recovery.  And the FEMA Think Tank has also made a replay of their calls available on iTunes as well.  The FEMA Think Tank facilitates conversations about ideas, suggestions, and best practices to improving emergency management. These calls bring together leaders across all levels of government, businesses, non-profit and volunteer-led organizations, and members of local communities to discuss, so they’re always a great thing to listen in on, even if you download the replay of the call.

Photo & Video of the week

Coming to America…Jeremiah Ologhobo Joins FEMA

Jeremiah Ologhobo, a Nigerian by birth, traveled to America, and after waiting five years, he became a U.S. citizen on January 9, 2013. Jeremiah then joined FEMA on January 15 to work in Community Relations in the aftermath of Hurricane Sandy. Jeremiah is currently working as a Neighborhood Taskforce Initiate crewmember. This is his story.

volunteers picking up debris

CAPTION: Oak Grove, Miss., March 2, 2013 -- Volunteers from Samaritan's Purse drag debris curb-side in the hard-hit Summertrace neighborhood. Volunteers are making a major difference by bringing debris to where the County can gather and remove it.

Have a safe weekend!

Posted on Fri, 03/08/2013 - 16:35

What We’re Watching: 3/1/13

Author: 
Lars Anderson

At the end of each week, we post a "What We’re Watching" blog as we look ahead to the weekend and recap events from the week. We encourage you to share it with your friends and family, and have a safe weekend.

Severe Weather Preparedness Week

Next week marks the start of National Severe Weather Preparedness Week! All week, we’ll be providing the public with information about the threat of severe weather and the importance of being prepared for severe weather before it strikes. We’re asking people to pledge to prepare and be a force of nature by telling their family, friends and communities how they prepared for severe weather.

Every year, thousands of people are impacted by severe weather threats like tornadoes and severe thunderstorms, and we never know when severe weather may strike, so we encourage you to take the first step by pledging to prepare.  The steps you take to prepare for severe weather now can help save your life and others with severe weather strikes.  And in case you missed it, check out this video Al Roker recorded about preparedness, as well as this behind the scenes video.

Photos of the week

Hattiesburg, Miss., Feb. 26, 2013 -- Roger Crump, Loss Verifier for the Small Business Administration and Reilly Bean, a recently arrived FEMA Corps worker, help an applicant. FEMA set up a "Mini-DRC" in the Student Union building on the campus of the University of Southern Mississippi so questions can be answered face to face.

CAPTION: Hattiesburg, Miss., Feb. 26, 2013 -- Roger Crump, Loss Verifier for the Small Business Administration and Reilly Bean, a recently arrived FEMA Corps worker, help an applicant. FEMA set up a "Mini-DRC" in the Student Union building on the campus of the University of Southern Mississippi so questions can be answered face to face. Photo by Marilee Caliendo/FEMA

Point Pleasant, N.J., Feb. 25, 2013 -- Construction is underway for Jenkinson's boardwalk projected to be completed by Memorial Day of 2013. FEMA works with federal, state and private sector, to assist people impacted by the storm.

CAPTION: Point Pleasant, N.J., Feb. 25, 2013 -- Construction is underway for Jenkinson's boardwalk projected to be completed by Memorial Day of 2013. FEMA works with federal, state and private sector, to assist people impacted by the storm. Steve Zumwalt/FEMA

New Addition to iTunes…

The FEMA's Chief Counsel and FEMA Think Tank Podcasts have a new home – they are now available in the iTunes store.

The Chief Counsel Podcast features audio recordings from our Chief Counsel on an array of topics ranging from the different sources of law that apply to the delivery of FEMA’s mission to discussion of insurance requirements for FEMA’s Public Assistance program.  You can download the entire podcast or a single episode on a topic of your choice.

The FEMA Think Tank Podcast features audio recordings from previous monthly Think Tank calls held across the U.S. In case you weren’t able to join any calls, or if you just want to listen to them again, be sure to download the podcast or just the episode (month’s call) you wish to hear.

Grab your Apple device and download them from the iTunes store today!

You can always listen to the podcasts on fema.gov too: Chief Counsel & Think Tank.  Be on the lookout for new podcasts, and of course, FEMA does not endorse any non-government websites, companies or applications.

Have a safe weekend!

Posted on Fri, 03/01/2013 - 18:30

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