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Now Accepting Youth Preparedness Council Applications
jessica.geraci
Wed, 01/13/2021 – 12:40The next generation of emergency management leaders is out there. They have the ideas, leadership and initiative needed to make a difference. Every year, FEMA recruits these individuals as part of its Youth Preparedness Council and helps to empower them to prepare their communities for disasters.
The council was created in 2012 to bring together youth leaders interested in supporting disaster preparedness and making a difference in their communities with national and local preparedness projects. Members voice their opinions, experiences, ideas, solutions and questions on youth disaster preparedness with the leadership of FEMA and national organizations working on youth preparedness. They also participate in the annual Youth Preparedness Council Summit.
Past participants have presented at national conferences, created youth preparedness outreach products and designed and executed community preparedness fairs. They have also developed events and products relevant to the current pandemic, such as hosting youth-focused webinars with health experts and writing a storybook for young children about COVID-19. Some council members have started their own local emergency preparedness initiatives and worked with emergency management professionals from federal, state and local agencies to encourage the public, particularly youth, to take life-saving preparedness actions. In the past, council members have had the opportunity to meet with the White House, the FEMA Administrator, the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, the Centers for Disease and Prevention and other federal agencies to give their perspective and participation to other national-level projects.
Participants are expected to provide a youth perspective on emergency preparedness and promote national emergency preparedness in their communities. In addition to attending the Youth Preparedness Council Summit, council members will potentially participate in national, regional, state and local preparedness meetings and present their work. Members will meet with FEMA on a regular basis via conference call to provide ongoing input on strategies, initiatives and projects throughout the duration of their two-year term.
Any individual grades 8th through 11th who is engaged in individual and community preparedness may apply to serve on the Youth Preparedness Council. Individuals interested in applying to the council must submit a completed application and a letter of recommendation. Specific information about completing and submitting the application and attachments can be found on the FEMA website.
All applications and supporting materials must be received no later than 11:59 PT on March 7 to be eligible.
Posted: January 13, 2021, 5:40 pmNow Accepting Youth Preparedness Council Applications
jessica.geraci
Wed, 01/13/2021 – 12:40The next generation of emergency management leaders is out there. They have the ideas, leadership and initiative needed to make a difference. Every year, FEMA recruits these individuals as part of its Youth Preparedness Council and helps to empower them to prepare their communities for disasters.
The council was created in 2012 to bring together youth leaders interested in supporting disaster preparedness and making a difference in their communities with national and local preparedness projects. Members voice their opinions, experiences, ideas, solutions and questions on youth disaster preparedness with the leadership of FEMA and national organizations working on youth preparedness. They also participate in the annual Youth Preparedness Council Summit.
Past participants have presented at national conferences, created youth preparedness outreach products and designed and executed community preparedness fairs. They have also developed events and products relevant to the current pandemic, such as hosting youth-focused webinars with health experts and writing a storybook for young children about COVID-19. Some council members have started their own local emergency preparedness initiatives and worked with emergency management professionals from federal, state and local agencies to encourage the public, particularly youth, to take life-saving preparedness actions. In the past, council members have had the opportunity to meet with the White House, the FEMA Administrator, the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, the Centers for Disease and Prevention and other federal agencies to give their perspective and participation to other national-level projects.
Participants are expected to provide a youth perspective on emergency preparedness and promote national emergency preparedness in their communities. In addition to attending the Youth Preparedness Council Summit, council members will potentially participate in national, regional, state and local preparedness meetings and present their work. Members will meet with FEMA on a regular basis via conference call to provide ongoing input on strategies, initiatives and projects throughout the duration of their two-year term.
Any individual grades 8th through 11th who is engaged in individual and community preparedness may apply to serve on the Youth Preparedness Council. Individuals interested in applying to the council must submit a completed application and a letter of recommendation. Specific information about completing and submitting the application and attachments can be found on the FEMA website.
All applications and supporting materials must be received no later than 11:59 PT on March 7 to be eligible.
Posted: January 13, 2021, 5:40 pm10 Ways You can Resolve to be Ready
jessica.geraci
Thu, 12/31/2020 – 09:56This year, hurricanes, wildfires and a pandemic brought devastation across the nation. These incidents remind us why it’s important to be ready for anything.
Taking steps to plan for the unexpected can mean you are more equipped to protect yourself and others if a disaster happens. Resolve to be ready with these ten tips.
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Create an emergency plan.
Know your evacuation routes and have place designated for your family to meet in case you get separated.
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Make an emergency kit.
These portable kits should include food, water, medications, prescriptions, cash, radios, flashlights and other necessities. It is also recommended that you have hand sanitizer and face masks included in your kit, to help prevent the spread of coronavirus. Keep an emergency kit in your car in case you are stranded.
- Keep your pantry stocked.
Food is often in short supply during disaster events. It is important to have several days’ worth of food safely stored in your home to support yourself and your family. Don’t forget to include food for your pets!
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Get to know your community.
Learn about disaster planning in your community and what resources are available to you in case of emergency. Join a local Community Emergency Response Team (CERT) program to get trained on basic disaster response skills, such as fire safety, light search and rescue, team organization and disaster medical operations.
- Sign-up for emergency alerts for your area
It’s important to know how to get information when a disaster happens. Local radio and television stations provide information on evacuation routes, temporary shelters and other emergency procedures.
- Check your insurance policy.
Understand what your policy covers in case of major disasters. Contact your insurance company for detailed instructions on what you will need to make a claim for insurance. Learn more about flood insurance what is available to you under the National Flood Insurance Program.
- Take Inventory of what you own.
Snap pictures of your property and make an inventory for insurance purposes. Having a clear record of what you own will make the insurance process easier.
- Protect your valuables.
Store precious belongings, such as photographs or heirlooms, in damage proof containers so you don’t risk losing them permanently. Also keep copies of your critical documents safe and secure in case of emergency.
- Plan for your pet.
Build a separate emergency kit for your pets. This can include creating a list of shelters that accept pets if you need to evacuate the area.
- Budget for a disaster.
Financially prepare for the New Year. Find out how with the Emergency Financial First Aid Kit. Start to grow an emergency fund today so you can cover any unexpected changes in your day-to-day life.
Visit Ready.gov/resolution for more information on how you can resolve to be ready.
Posted: December 31, 2020, 2:56 pm10 Ways You can Resolve to be Ready
jessica.geraci
Thu, 12/31/2020 – 09:56This year, hurricanes, wildfires and a pandemic brought devastation across the nation. These incidents remind us why it’s important to be ready for anything.
Taking steps to plan for the unexpected can mean you are more equipped to protect yourself and others if a disaster happens. Resolve to be ready with these ten tips.
-
Create an emergency plan.
Know your evacuation routes and have place designated for your family to meet in case you get separated.
-
Make an emergency kit.
These portable kits should include food, water, medications, prescriptions, cash, radios, flashlights and other necessities. It is also recommended that you have hand sanitizer and face masks included in your kit, to help prevent the spread of coronavirus. Keep an emergency kit in your car in case you are stranded.
- Keep your pantry stocked.
Food is often in short supply during disaster events. It is important to have several days’ worth of food safely stored in your home to support yourself and your family. Don’t forget to include food for your pets!
-
Get to know your community.
Learn about disaster planning in your community and what resources are available to you in case of emergency. Join a local Community Emergency Response Team (CERT) program to get trained on basic disaster response skills, such as fire safety, light search and rescue, team organization and disaster medical operations.
- Sign-up for emergency alerts for your area
It’s important to know how to get information when a disaster happens. Local radio and television stations provide information on evacuation routes, temporary shelters and other emergency procedures.
- Check your insurance policy.
Understand what your policy covers in case of major disasters. Contact your insurance company for detailed instructions on what you will need to make a claim for insurance. Learn more about flood insurance what is available to you under the National Flood Insurance Program.
- Take Inventory of what you own.
Snap pictures of your property and make an inventory for insurance purposes. Having a clear record of what you own will make the insurance process easier.
- Protect your valuables.
Store precious belongings, such as photographs or heirlooms, in damage proof containers so you don’t risk losing them permanently. Also keep copies of your critical documents safe and secure in case of emergency.
- Plan for your pet.
Build a separate emergency kit for your pets. This can include creating a list of shelters that accept pets if you need to evacuate the area.
- Budget for a disaster.
Financially prepare for the New Year. Find out how with the Emergency Financial First Aid Kit. Start to grow an emergency fund today so you can cover any unexpected changes in your day-to-day life.
Visit Ready.gov/resolution for more information on how you can resolve to be ready.
Posted: December 31, 2020, 2:56 pmReaching Out When You’re Having a Blue Holiday Season
jessica.geraci
Mon, 12/21/2020 – 13:55By Zachary Usher, Mass Care, VAL and Community Services Branch Chief
The holiday season is usually a time to reflect on the past year and enjoy time with loved ones, but this year feels different. A global pandemic, supply shortages and a record-breaking hurricane season top the list of reasons why this year will be remembered as one that impacted and disrupted lives across the world.
For many, this year has brought personal challenges and hardships: grief of losing a loved one, anxiety from losing a job or disruptions due to property damage after a disaster. Whether you faced a hardship in 2020—or 20 months or 20 years ago—the holiday season can bring unpleasant reminders. Songs, gifts and holiday parties can trigger painful and sad memories of the past.
If you are isolating at home, away from loved ones or coworkers, feelings of seclusion, depression and anxiety can creep in. Other people cannot see it, but these feelings can be overwhelming. You might feel alone, but you are not – help is available.
Anyone in the United States and its territories can get help 24 hours a day throughout the year through the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) Disaster Distress Helpline:
- Call or text 1-800-985-5990 (press “2” for Spanish).
- If you are deaf or hard of hearing, you can use the text option.
- For TTY, use your preferred Relay service or dial 7-1-1 and then 1-800-985-5990.
This toll-free, multilingual, and confidential crisis support service provides trained counselors for those experiencing distress or other mental health concerns related to any natural or human-caused disasters and can refer callers to state and community resources for follow-up care and support. For additional information on the Disaster Distress Helpline, please visit the SAMHSA website.
In addition, FEMA’s Crisis Counseling Assistance and Training Program (CCP) helps individuals and communities recover from the effects of natural or human-made disasters through short-term intervention that provides emotional support, basic crisis counseling and connections to support systems. This program is anonymous and free of charge. Counselors are available to help people understand their feelings and learn how to handle stress. They do not make diagnoses or keep records.
FEMA and SAMHSA award and administer CCP to support those who are seeking help. All 50 states, the District of Columbia and three territories received a Major Disaster Declaration for the Crisis Counseling Program as a result of the Coronavirus pandemic (COVID-19).
Four territories and 46 states have chosen to apply for the program and have received awards. It provides no-cost services to help individuals and communities recover from the psychological effects of COVID-19 through community-based outreach and educational services that build resilience. To find out which programs are available in your community, contact your state or territory public health or human service office.
With limited gatherings and social distancing constructs, it is important to pay attention to how you’re feeling this holiday season. Don’t be afraid or ashamed to reach out for support. If you notice a family member or loved one having a difficult time, encourage them to get help.
Posted: December 21, 2020, 6:55 pmReaching Out When You’re Having a Blue Holiday Season
jessica.geraci
Mon, 12/21/2020 – 13:55By Zachary Usher, Mass Care, VAL and Community Services Branch Chief
The holiday season is usually a time to reflect on the past year and enjoy time with loved ones, but this year feels different. A global pandemic, supply shortages and a record-breaking hurricane season top the list of reasons why this year will be remembered as one that impacted and disrupted lives across the world.
For many, this year has brought personal challenges and hardships: grief of losing a loved one, anxiety from losing a job or disruptions due to property damage after a disaster. Whether you faced a hardship in 2020—or 20 months or 20 years ago—the holiday season can bring unpleasant reminders. Songs, gifts and holiday parties can trigger painful and sad memories of the past.
If you are isolating at home, away from loved ones or coworkers, feelings of seclusion, depression and anxiety can creep in. Other people cannot see it, but these feelings can be overwhelming. You might feel alone, but you are not – help is available.
Anyone in the United States and its territories can get help 24 hours a day throughout the year through the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) Disaster Distress Helpline:
- Call or text 1-800-985-5990 (press “2” for Spanish).
- If you are deaf or hard of hearing, you can use the text option.
- For TTY, use your preferred Relay service or dial 7-1-1 and then 1-800-985-5990.
This toll-free, multilingual, and confidential crisis support service provides trained counselors for those experiencing distress or other mental health concerns related to any natural or human-caused disasters and can refer callers to state and community resources for follow-up care and support. For additional information on the Disaster Distress Helpline, please visit the SAMHSA website.
In addition, FEMA’s Crisis Counseling Assistance and Training Program (CCP) helps individuals and communities recover from the effects of natural or human-made disasters through short-term intervention that provides emotional support, basic crisis counseling and connections to support systems. This program is anonymous and free of charge. Counselors are available to help people understand their feelings and learn how to handle stress. They do not make diagnoses or keep records.
FEMA and SAMHSA award and administer CCP to support those who are seeking help. All 50 states, the District of Columbia and three territories received a Major Disaster Declaration for the Crisis Counseling Program as a result of the Coronavirus pandemic (COVID-19).
Four territories and 46 states have chosen to apply for the program and have received awards. It provides no-cost services to help individuals and communities recover from the psychological effects of COVID-19 through community-based outreach and educational services that build resilience. To find out which programs are available in your community, contact your state or territory public health or human service office.
With limited gatherings and social distancing constructs, it is important to pay attention to how you’re feeling this holiday season. Don’t be afraid or ashamed to reach out for support. If you notice a family member or loved one having a difficult time, encourage them to get help.
Posted: December 21, 2020, 6:55 pmFEMA and Cooperating Technical Partners Collaborate for More Resilient Communities
jessica.geraci
Fri, 12/18/2020 – 10:36By Laura Algeo, National Cooperating Technical Partners Program Coordinator
A major risk faced by communities across the country every year is flooding. I have been working on reducing risks due to flooding for over 20 years and know coming up with solutions is complicated. Each community’s unique qualities, like the landscape, buildings, population, and weather, define the kind of risk they face. There are so many people and groups that have pieces to that puzzle. When we build partnerships, we get a better picture of not just the risk but also how we can work together to reduce it.
I coordinate the Cooperating Technical Partners program, which is made up of tribal nations, communities, territories, universities, non-profits, and regional and state agencies, all of whom make the difference in reducing risk. They work with, and in, communities to identify, reduce, and plan for risks. I get to see how our network of more than 300 members is one of our greatest strengths.
Partners are in every FEMA region and represent all sizes of community. They work on identifying flood hazards and risk, communicating that risk, helping communities to find unique ways to reduce their risk, and more. Over the last two decades, there have been many successes through these partnerships. I’d like to share with you some standout partnerships that have been recognized by their peers and received the Cooperating Technical Partners Recognition Award.
The following partners all provide excellence in communicating with their communities and helping them better understand their risks and act on that knowledge:
- The Iowa Department of Natural Resources developed a web viewer and a process to collect community feedback. The goal is to share flood data with communities early and often. This results in more open and free flowing conversation with everyone in the community. The public gets a more direct line back to the state that is working to identify their risks. This helps ensure the best possible data and study of risk is done.
- The Georgia Department of Natural Resources created an online shop to access educational tools, plain language materials, and property-specific flood risk snapshots. This tool goes a long way to ensure that the public understands the risk that their community has and what they can do to make their properties safer.
- The Kentucky Division of Water uses a type of virtual reality to help people see and understand flood risk in local places in a new way. It is an amazing way to put yourself into the area of the flood risk and see what the impacts of that risk are on the area around you in an in-depth way.
The following partnerships have increased access to modeling and data that can help communities ensure development that takes place is done in a safe and forward-thinking way:
- The Harris County Flood Control District has been a partner for 20 years. In that time, their forward-thinking approach has provided professionals and residents within Harris County access to expertise, data, and educational opportunities to promote floodplain management, risk awareness, and resilience.
- The Indiana Department of Natural Resources developed a place for elected officials, floodplain administrators, and residents to access state-specific floodplain data. If you are looking to live in Indiana, this site has a lot of tools to help you better understand your risk.
- The San Antonio River Authority is part of a watershed master planning and floodplain management program. It is developing models to update flood hazard data, improve flood warning systems, and highlight areas for improvements.
This partner has improved the mapping process in its state:
- The Illinois State Water Survey created a program to streamline the state processes with the federal ones to ensure that there is maximum coordination with communities. They have developed accurate, easily accessible data for every county in Illinois, while maximizing local involvement.
Despite our best efforts to avoid damage from flooding, at times we still face disaster. This partner responded in an exceptional way to record-breaking floods in 2019.
- Nebraska Department of Natural Resources supported floodplain administrators throughout the post-disaster period. They captured lessons-learned before, during and after the flood event to create a post-disaster handbook. The handbook will be available in early 2021.
These examples show how partnerships work in creative and original ways. I have been involved with the program since it started in 1999 and the advancements made by all the partners have helped so many communities become more aware and plan safer for coming risks. I am excited to see all our partnerships continue to grow and build understanding of risk and help communities come up with inventive ways to stay resilient.
Posted: December 18, 2020, 3:36 pmA Historic Year in Emergency Management
jessica.geraci
Wed, 12/16/2020 – 14:34On Jan. 7, a 6.4 magnitude earthquake rattled Puerto Rico and launched FEMA into action. This would set the tone for emergency management in 2020. What followed was a worldwide pandemic, widespread wildfires and a historic hurricane season. Through it all, FEMA has continued to prepare the nation for future disasters and help it recover from those it has already faced.
The funds, people and assistance that fueled response efforts in 2020 are extensive. The numbers in the graphics below represent just some of the results of these efforts.
Pandemic Response
In one way or another, the pandemic has affected us all. Businesses, states, individuals, all had to find new ways to do their usual, day-to-day activities. They rose to meet these new challenges in creative and unique ways. Many stories of how communities came together to implement innovative solutions to these challenges are shared on FEMA’s COVID-19 best practice page, which compiles best practices and lessons learned throughout the pandemic response.
FEMA has also had to adjust and innovate to meet these new challenges. For the first time, all 50 states, the District of Columbia and 5 territories were approved for major disaster declarations, something that FEMA had not seen before. New flexible and quick action was needed that reached deep into our response plans for every possible disaster. We collaborated with state, local, tribal and territorial partners on the emergency response challenges faced during operations in a pandemic environment. We also worked together to provide critical supplies and support to the American people.
Graphic
Disaster Recovery Reform Act
The challenges faced this year remind us why it’s so important for the nation to be ready for any catastrophic event. This is why the Disaster Recovery Reform Act (DRRA) of 2018 was first signed into law. This year, FEMA continued to implement the act and work to reduce the complexity of the agency.
Millions were provided in retroactive financial assistance and to mitigation grants. FEMA also launched the Building Resilient Infrastructure and Communities grant, which provides $500 million to help state, local, tribal and territorial partners mitigate for future disasters.
Graphic
This year has tested and solidified the resilience of Americans and the ability of FEMA to hold up the nation. As we close out the year, FEMA remains as prepared as always to carry out our mission of supporting people before, during and after disasters.
A previous version of this blog post included a graphic that indicated incorrect funds for firefighter grants. This version has been updated to reflect that correction.
Posted: December 16, 2020, 7:34 pmA Historic Year in Emergency Management
jessica.geraci
Wed, 12/16/2020 – 14:34On Jan. 7, a 6.4 magnitude earthquake rattled Puerto Rico and launched FEMA into action. This would set the tone for emergency management in 2020. What followed was a worldwide pandemic, widespread wildfires and a historic hurricane season. Through it all, FEMA has continued to prepare the nation for future disasters and help it recover from those it has already faced.
The funds, people and assistance that fueled response efforts in 2020 are extensive. The numbers in the graphics below represent just some of the results of these efforts.
GraphicPandemic Response
In one way or another, the pandemic has affected us all. Businesses, states, individuals, all had to find new ways to do their usual, day-to-day activities. They rose to meet these new challenges in creative and unique ways. Many stories of how communities came together to implement innovative solutions to these challenges are shared on FEMA’s COVID-19 best practice page, which compiles best practices and lessons learned throughout the pandemic response.
FEMA has also had to adjust and innovate to meet these new challenges. For the first time, all 50 states, the District of Columbia and 5 territories were approved for major disaster declarations, something that FEMA had not seen before. New flexible and quick action was needed that reached deep into our response plans for every possible disaster. We collaborated with state, local, tribal and territorial partners on the emergency response challenges faced during operations in a pandemic environment. We also worked together to provide critical supplies and support to the American people.
GraphicDisaster Recovery Reform Act
The challenges faced this year remind us why it’s so important for the nation to be ready for any catastrophic event. This is why the Disaster Recovery Reform Act (DRRA) of 2018 was first signed into law. This year, FEMA continued to implement the act and work to reduce the complexity of the agency.
Millions were provided in retroactive financial assistance and to mitigation grants. FEMA also launched the Building Resilient Infrastructure and Communities grant, which provides $500 million to help state, local, tribal and territorial partners mitigate for future disasters.
GraphicThis year has tested and solidified the resilience of Americans and the ability of FEMA to hold up the nation. As we close out the year, FEMA remains as prepared as always to carry out our mission of supporting people before, during and after disasters.
A previous version of this blog post included a graphic that indicated incorrect funds for firefighter grants. This version has been updated to reflect that correction.
Posted: December 16, 2020, 7:34 pmGet Ready for Winter Weather
jessica.geraci
Wed, 12/09/2020 – 11:00As temperatures drop, it’s important to begin preparing for colder months and the threats they present. Winter storms can bring extreme cold, freezing rain, snow, ice and high winds. These conditions can create a higher risk of car accidents, hypothermia, frostbite, carbon monoxide poisoning and even heart attacks from overexertion.
Winter storms can last a few hours or several days. They can knock out heat, power and communication services. Older adults, young children and sick individuals are typically at greater risk during this time.
Taking preparedness actions, such as winterizing your car and keeping an emergency supply kit in it, can make a big difference in protecting you and your family. Other actions you can take to effectively prepare for winter conditions include:
- Preparing your home to keep out the cold with insulation. Learn how to keep pipes from freezing. Install and test smoke alarms and carbon monoxide detectors with battery backups.
- Know your winter weather terms and paying attention to weather reports and warnings of freezing weather and winter storms. Sign up for your community’s warning system.
- Gather supplies in case you need to stay home for several days without power. Keep in mind each person’s specific needs, including medication. Remember the needs of your pets.
- Create an emergency supply kit for your car. Include jumper cables, sand, a flashlight, warm clothes, blankets, bottled water and non-perishable snacks. Keep a full tank of gas and, if possible, have a professional check your battery, anti-freeze and cooling system.
Knowing the signs and basic treatments for frostbite and hypothermia is also important. Frostbite can cause loss of feeling and color around the face, finger and toes, as well as numbness and firm or waxy skin. If you think you are experiencing frostbite, go to a warm room, soak in warm water and use body heat to warm yourself.
Similarly, if you are experiencing an unusually low body temperature (less than 95 degrees) accompanied by confusion, fumbling hands or slurred speech, you may be experiencing hypothermia. If you are, go to a warm room, stay dry and wrap yourself in blankets.
During a winter storm, you can also stay safe by doing the following:
- Stay off the roads if possible.
- Avoid carbon monoxide poisoning. Only use generators and grills outdoors and away from windows. Never heat your home with a gas stovetop or oven.
- Check on your neighbors, while staying safe from COVID-19, by texting, emailing or calling them.
Visit Ready.gov/winter-weather for more information on how to stay safe in winter weather.
Posted: December 9, 2020, 4:00 pm -
