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This year, disasters across the country caused immeasurable damage to property and lives. Tornadoes ripped through Kentucky, hurricane season was the third strongest on record, wildfires were more frequent and COVID-19 variants created new uncertainty. As you plan out the new year, you should take potential emergencies like these into consideration. We put together four reasons it’s important to be ready – and what you can do to resolve to be ready this year.

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When the COVID-19 pandemic hit, Maria’s life changed forever. Food, shelter, and a safe home had never been things she had to worry about, but suddenly these problems were front and center in her life – and the lives of her five children. This is when Maria and her children sought refuge at one of the shelters in San Antonio.

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On Sunday, a major disaster declaration was declared for Kentucky after tornadoes left a trail of destruction across the commonwealth. Communities often need as much help as they can get while they try to recover and rebuild after a major disaster. Recovery is a whole community effort that includes everyone – from government agencies to community organizations and neighbors helping neighbors.

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For many, the next month will be a time for decorating, traveling, cooking and shopping. While we spend as much time with family and friends as we can, it’s important to take steps to stay safe.

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November 30th marks the official end to the 2021 Atlantic Hurricane Season, which produced 21 named storms, making it the third-most active Atlantic hurricane season on record. As a result of climate change, the novelty of breaking records has lost its weight; we’ve become desensitized to it, because we’re doing it every year.

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Dec. 3 marks the annual observance of the International Day of Persons with Disabilities. This day aims to promote the rights and well-being of persons with disabilities in all aspects of society and increase awareness in every aspect of political, social, economic and cultural life.

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Andrea Cardona shares her experience serving as a FEMA Corps member.

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As part of a new partnership between Region 5’s Individual Assistance Program and Wayne State University School of Social Work, ten volunteer students assisted more than 600 Detroit survivors affected by last June’s severe storms, flooding and tornadoes.

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The holiday season is a time for family, friends and feasts. This may mean you will be spending more time than usual in the kitchen. Cooking is the main cause of home fires any time of the year but it is especially common on Thanksgiving.

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FEMA’s mission is to help people before, during and after disasters. Service to others is the foundation of our mission and continues to be a close, personal conviction that we carry every day — often beyond our roles and duties as emergency managers.

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