Contributions tagged with "FEMA"

Interview with Richard Moshy, Mayor of Grafton, Illinois

Spring, 2007 -- A series of strong storms brought heavy rains and flooding across the Midwest. Many communities were threatened when the rivers swelled and the levees were topped. The President ordered federal aid to help state and local emergency managers respond to potential floods. Rural communities in Arkansas relied on state and federal partners to deliver drinking water and other immediate needs. This video features a glimpse into disaster response activities in the Arkansas Division of Emergency Management (ADEM) in Little Rock, Arkansas, and interviews with Charmaine Mitzlaff, Director of Emergency Management for Searcy County, Aaron Adams, ADEM Event Manager, and Pam Kottke, Searcy County Resident.

When a state requests Direct Federal Assistance following a presidential declaration, FEMA may provide requested commodities, generators or personnel to help save lives and protect property.

The small Kansas town of Greensburg was devastated by an EF-5 tornado on May 4, 2007. The President ordered federal aid to help the community respond to and recover from the effects of the disaster. FEMA delivered immediate assistance and committed resources to provide temporary housing and long-term planning so that the community could stay near their school and their jobs as the rebuilt. This video features an interview with Cassie Kirby, Board Clerk of the Greenburg Unified School District.

State, local, federal and nongovernmental partners ready the state of Texas to deal with the impact of Hurricane Ike.

FEMA commodities are staged in state receiving area before being sent to communities affected by Hurricane Gustav. Local communities request the life-sustaining commodities from the state, who in turn, works with FEMA to deliver them.

The Federal Emergency Management Agency mobilized its Urban Search and Rescue task forces in anticipation of a need to provide life saving actions in the wake of Hurricane Gustav. This clip talks about the team and how they are preparing.

An interview with James Goolsby, Building Inspector for the Village of Bayvillle, New York.

Following the devastating Midwest Floods of 1993, many communities such as Valmayer, Illinois adopted mitigation efforts to protect themselves from repetitive losses. In Spring of 2008, floods threatened many of the same communities, however, the loss of life and property was minimized following local, state, and federal mitigation efforts there. This video features an interview with Tom Andres, Police Chief of Valmayer, Illinois.

The Regional Response Coordination Center in Atlanta manages disasters in the eight states covered by Region IV: Alabama, Florida, Georgia, Kentucky, Mississippi, North Carolina, South Carolina and Tennessee. The RRCC serves as a unified center for federal agencies to deploy assets and work together with local and state emergency managers until a field office can be established at or near the scene of the disaster.

FEMA commodities are staged in state receiving area in Lufkin, TX on September 2, 2008 before being sent to communities affected by Hurricane Gustav. Local communities request the life-sustaining commodities from the state, who in turn, works with FEMA to deliver them.

Hurricase Gustav Resource Staging Area, Lufkin, TX, September 2, 2008

Interview with Paul Hannamann, Department Head for Incident Response, Texas Forest Service

The Federal Emergency Management Agency mobilized its Urban Search and Rescue task forces in anticipation of a need to provide life saving actions in the wake of Hurricane Gustav. This clip talks about the canine members on the team.

Local and state resources clear debris from roads in Baton Rouge, Lousiana on September 2, 2008 to make way for the safe return of residents following Hurricane Gustav

FEMA Urban Search & Rescue teams set up a staging area in Atlanta, Georgia on August 31, 2008 to prepare to respond to Hurricane Gustav. Under Emergency Support Function #9, US&R rapidly deploys to disaster areas to provide life-saving assistance.

Phylis Paton with FEMA's National Processing Service Center in Denton, TX, talks about what happens when people call FEMA's 1-800-621-FEMA registration number for assistance.

Volunteers with VISTA AmeriCorps comes to Iowa to help in the communities affected by the flooding. FEMA works with local, state, federal and nongovernmental partners to help communities respond to and recover from disasters

FEMA Administrator David Paulison prepares his South Florida home for potential hurricanes on June 1, 2008. Hurricane Season begins June 1 every year. Preparing for disasters now can save lives and protect property.

James Yost, a FEMA Stafford Act Employee talks about helping out in the Greensburg, Kansas, community. FEMA staff spend a lot of their time working on location in affected communities following disasters.

Recent floods throughout the Midwest have brought the need for communities to build and rebuild stronger, smarter and safer, into sharp focus. The concept is called hazard mitigation and it basically means to take actions to prevent or reduce disaster losses in the future. Many communities affected by the 1993 Midwest floods adopted community-wide mitigation efforts to help reduce future flood losses. Some communities urged their citizens to protect themselves financially through flood insurance. Some required families living in flood-prone areas to elevate their homes above the typical reach of common floods. Some towns, bent but not broken, decided to move together to higher ground. This year, the benefit to citizens and taxpayers alike were realized when those communities endured dramatically less impact.

In preparation for the landfall of Hurricane Ike, FEMA Region 4 logistics chief Kertz Hare describes how new tracking and satellite technology allows FEMA to respond better than ever to critical commodity needs of disaster victims.

Volunteers from the Univ of Houston talk about being part of the disaster response following Hurricane Ike. Volunteers work with state, local and federal officials to distribute life saving commodities at point of distribution (POD) sites throughout the affected area.

On September 13, 2008, Hurricane Ike slammed the Gulf Coast of Texas, damaging homes and displacing residents throughout the region. FEMA, in coordination with the state of Texas and other agencies, move to provide safe temporary shelter while homeowners affected by the storm pick up the pieces and go about rebuilding their lives.

FEMA Community Relations Specialists attend a deaf and hard of hearing community event. Using American Sign Language translators, applicants who had been affected by Hurricane Ike speak with the CR personnel to have their FEMA related questions answered.

When there is a major disaster in a community it affects everyone, individuals and businesses. Many people are torn between having to work and attending to personal recovery issues. In response, FEMA implements a pilot program that addresses both of these needs; working together with a local business and bringing recovery information directly to associates at their place of employment.

FEMA mitigation experts visit a hardware store in Galveston, TX to reach out to homeowners trying to rebuild their homes after Hurricane Ike. Their purpose is to educate members of the community to build back stronger and safer to minimize losses from future disasters. Mitigation specialist Carl Rea talks us through the effort. This video also features interviews with a Galveston homeowner and Home Depot's district manager.

Disasters can strike any time and anywhere. FEMA staff called to respond to the disasters work in the affected communities throughout the recovery process, often spending holidays away from home.

Many homes along the Southeast Texas coast were destroyed by Hurricane Ike.
Those homes that were built or reinforced using mitigation best practices fared better due to simple and cost-effective efforts.

Paul Strizek's house in Kemah, TX, escaped Hurricane Ike relatively unscathed despite being built almost on top of the water. His home survived because he took proper mitigation measures well in advance of the storm. Paul describes for us the steps he took and why he took them, and explains why others in the area should do the same.

After many major disasters, FEMA deploys a team of engineers, architects, and mitigation experts to assess the damages and update best practice information. Paul Tertell, a civil engineer and member of the Mitigation Assessment Team, or MAT, talks us through the process.

A natural disaster like a tornado or hurricane is almost certain to leave behind debris to be cleaned up; Hurricane Ike left behind debris in quantities that are hard to imagine. A debris specialist talks about his and FEMA's public assistance roles in the cleanup efforts after Hurricane Ike.

In the early summer of 2008, intense storms and flooding caused severe damage across Iowa. This was one of the worst disasters in Iowas history. Iowa FedEx Freight chose to partner with FEMA and the state of Iowa to provide water and other life-saving supplies at the height of the response to the disaster.

Community Relations teams work at the grass roots level to provide vital information to people impacted by disaster. Mary Dawson is a Community Relations specialist working back to back disasters in Indiana. She has been away from her home and family for five months.

Hurricane Ike hit the Bolivar Peninsula and left tremendous damage behind. Massive amounts of debris were piled up and await the beginning of the clean-up process. FEMA funds provide for a specially trained team of experts to comb through the debris piles one last time to ensure no one missing from Hurricane Ike is still left undiscovered.

Americorps NCCC is a volunteer organization for young people interested in community service. After Hurricane Ike hit the Texas Gulf Coast, the young people of Americorps were there to help FEMA help people in the recovery effort.

Spanish language story of the floods that affected Puerto Rico was provided by the communications department at the University of the Sacred Heart.

Hurricane Ike took a massive amount of debris from the Bolivar Peninsula and deposited it on Goat Island. The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality (TCEQ) work together to sort through the debris and remove hazardous materials that could harm the environment. FEMA pays for the endeavor. Gary Moore, EPA, and Jeff Lewellin, TCEQ, introduce us to the process.

Rosalind Blanco Cook of the New Orleans Regional Transit Authority explains the historical importance of the New Orleans streetcars to the city, and how FEMA funding made their restoration possible after they were severely damaged by flood waters during Hurricane Katrina.

This video came from our friends at floodsmart.gov. The river helped make Chris and Ellen Bollenbachers restaurant a special destinationuntil it flooded. Without flood insurance, they wouldve lost their business.

FEMA community relations specialist Thu Ha Nguyen talks about the importance of being bi-lingual when it comes to dealing with victims of a disaster.

FEMA Administrator David Paulison talks about the changes to FEMA during his administration. He gives a farewell to staff and thanks the public for letting him serve.

Bob Becker talks about the efforts to restore City Park post-Katrina, and the help that FEMA has given in the situation.

Gary Dlouchy is the Remediation Supervisor for Bridge City, Texas and has been tasked with preparing and installing a total of 89 trailers with functioning and approved utilities at the Temporary Housing Acadian Annex, Sites I and II in Orange County. This temporary housing, funded by FEMA, is provided to victims of Hurricane Ike that lost their homes in the storm.

Randolph Taylor, Director of New Orleans Lakefront Airport talks about the efforts to rebuild after Hurricane Katrina.

Four minute video about a mom and her baby visiting a grocery store, to prepare for a hurricane. The mother needs to buy enough groceries to last up to 72 hours (3 days) with only $20.00.

Supt. of St. Bernard Parish Schools Doris Voitier talks about the efforts to rebuild after Hurricane Katrina.

Marco Perez, General Manager of UNO Lakefront Arena, talks about what its taken to get this major sports and entertainment venue back in shape after Hurricane Katrina.

Shandi Teltschik of FEMA Region VIIIs Mitigation Division in Denver, Colorado, urges homeowners in North Dakota floodplain areas to purchase flood insurance before the beginning of the spring flood season.

General John Heltzel, Director of the Division of Emergency Management for the Commonwealth of Kentucky, talks about the importance for state, local and private non-profit agencies to file a request for Public Assistance (RPA). The RPA is the first step in obtaining federal reimbursement for work completed in response to the federally declared Winter Storms disaster.

Chris White describes the effectiveness of landscape fire
mitigation and fire-resistant building construction materials in
minimizing damage during the recent Olde Stage Road Fire in Boulder, Colorado.

Community Relations Specialist (CR) often have to meet with households face to face to help them successfully navigate the disaster recovery process. One FEMA CR specialists' efforts paid off for a community of neighbors.

Orleans Parish Criminal Sheriff Marlin Gusman talks about rebuilding the parish prison system after Hurricane Katrina.

Lawrence Van Hoose of Ochsner Health System talks about the challenges...

A little creek. No floods in 40 years. Then suddenly, $240000 of flood damage. Without flood insurance, Rich Smith could have been left without a home. This video was provided by www.FloodSmart.gov .

North Dakota Air National Guard Capt. Grant Miller describes how various branches of the military are integrated into the flood fight in Fargo, North Dakota.

Fargo homeowner Jay Olson describes his gratitude for the generosity of volunteers who are helping to defend his house from the flood waters of the Red River of the North.

FEMA's Denver Mobile Emergency Response Support (MERS) Team deploys to North Dakota

FEMA's Voluntary Agencies Liaisons help homeowners repair or rebuild their homes after a disaster.

Maggie Woodruff talks about how FEMA and Louis Armstrong International Airport worked together after Hurricane Katrina.

A brief message to residents affected by flooding and blizzard conditions in North Dakota and Minnesota.

Major General Hunt Downer talks about rebuilding historic Jackson Barracks after Katrina.

The Village of Tiki Island is a community located on about 12 miles of canals in Texas, just across the bay from Galveston Island. When Hurricane Ike came through, it filled the canals with debris from the storm. Almost every home in Tiki is on the waterfront and access to the canals is important to the residents. Cleanup has begun and is scheduled to be completed by April 26, 2009. FEMA is paying for the debris removal.

Chief Warrant Officer Ron Doll with the North Dakota Army National Guard describes his agency's roll in the flooding of Bismarck, March 26, 2009.

Seawolf Park is located in and owned by the city of Galveston, Texas on Pelican Island. Its two main attractions are the USS Cavalla submarine and USS Stewart destroyer escort ship. Damage to the park facilities and its attractions are significant due to storm surge from Hurricane Ike. A brief tour of the vessels and damages incurred are presented in this video as well as FEMA's plan to fund mitigation against future losses in speculation of another disaster.

Candace Beauvais, PG, FEMA Beach Specialist under National Infrastructure Technical Assistance Contract (NISTAC), presents information regarding the rebuilding measures of Blue Water Highway in Brazoria County, Texas and FEMA's involvement under the Public Assistance Program. This road was severely damaged during Hurricane Ike and had been rendered impassable.

City of Bismarck building inspectors tour flooded neighborhoods.

Brian Smith, PIO for Texas Engineering Extension Service and the Texas Task Force 1 Urban Search and Rescue team talks about how the state pulls together resources in disasters and how citizens can get involved.

St. Charles Parish gets FEMA funding to outfit a pumping station with a special debris rake, to make sure trash doesnt keep the pumping station from working properly during a storm.

FEMA and the state of Louisiana help agencies find alternative ways to fund recovery and rebuilding.

Officer Michael Levy with the Ocean City, MD Police Department talks about attending the National Hurricane Conference and how new media can help police and emergency managers reach the public better.

Volunteers are critical during recovery following a disaster like Hurricane Ike. Houston based Lutheran Intercity Network Coalition (LINC) is just one example of how agencies and volunteers help communities heal.

Faith-based and other volunteer groups provide help long after the emergency phase of a disaster has passed. Many victims of Hurricane Ike in Galveston rely on the services volunteer groups provide. Evangelical Free Church of America is one of those groups that joined the recovery effort and sends volunteers from all over the United States and Canada to assist in rebuilding damaged homes from the storm.

How the New Orleans Public Library System is rebuilding after Hurricane Katrina.

Dr. Richard Knabb, Deputy Director of the Central Pacific Hurricane Center NOAA/NWS, talks at the National Hurricane Conference about the importance of communication to the public the importance of preparedness.

Native American tribes are sovereign nations with their own governments and can choose to work with FEMA on a government-to-government basis, or they may work with their own state to get assistance. The June 2008 flooding of the Iowa River caused considerable damage on the Meskwaki settlement near Tama, Iowa. The settlement is home to the Sac and Fox and they chose to work with FEMA as government-to-government.

Slideshow of the affected areas that have drastically recovered in the last year.

Muscatine Iowa. Since 1993, the city of Muscatine had to spend thousands of dollars to repair a playground which has been damaged by flood waters four times including the flood of 2008. Thanks to a FEMA mitigation project, however, the city will have its playground and save thousands of dollars if it floods again.

A playground called Miracle: The Parkersburg, Iowa May 25, 2008 tornado destroyed the swimming pool park playground. Two weeks later, two local citizens started a Rebuild the Playground Park Committee and began the process of soliciting funds from businesses and the private sector along with having the entire rebuild done by volunteers and adding a second park on the east side of town. Dedication of the new Miracle playground park will be on May 24.

The mayor of Kenner, LA, talks about how his city has recovered after Katrina.

The cities of Parkersburg and New Hartford, Iowa were hit by a devastating tornado on May 25, 2008. This is the story of the state/federal funding assistance both of these communities received and the recovery, renewal and rebuilding that changed those horrific days into a 'triumph of renewal.'

Video starts with quotes from FEMA PIO Frank Blake and the State Coordinating Officer Jimmy Gianato, then Donald Bishop, a West Virginia flood survivor, tells his story about the flood and the assistance he has received

The opening of the FEMA Disaster Recovery Centers in Devils Lake and the Spirit Lake Nation

How FEMA Mitigation and a local Sam's Club combined efforts to educate the community. Ryan Dively, Club Manager, discusses the joint effort.

Almost 25 percent of all floods occur outside of high flood-risk areas. If you need the name of an insurance agent near you who sells flood insurance, contact the agent referral line or go online to FloodSmart.gov.

How FEMA Mitigation and a local Sam's Club combined efforts to educate the community. Ryan Dively, Club Manager, discusses the joint effort.

Donald Lumpkins discusses the Complete Preparedness Guide and the effects it will have on FEMA, state, territorial, tribal and local governments.

To restore the unique character of Bolivar Peninsula, local leaders and citizens are working together to plan for their Long-Term community recovery.

FEMA logistics on the ground in Alaska in response to flooding. The all-women team talks candidly about their mission in a remote part of the state.

Marc Lester, WV disaster survivor, talks about FEMA Individual Assistance and Mitigation

A main road in Eagle, AK that was heavily damaged during Spring 2009 flooding and ice jams reopens for travel.

A barge arrives carrying supplies for the repairing of homes damaged during flooding and ice jams in Tanana, AK. FEMA Logistics Unit Lead Leslie Burgin talks about what that means to her mission and what it means to the community. Tim Wilcox, a crew member on the barge talks about the difficulties of getting supplies to very remote towns like Tanana.

The main natural resource for Eagle, AK is salmon. During the Spring 2009 flooding and ice jams the fish wheels used to harvest fish were all damaged in Eagle. Volunteers and residents repaired one to use as a community fish wheel to help prepare for winter.

Due to time and logistical constraints, in Eagle, Alaska FEMA is providing gravel to disaster survivors for the first time ever. The gravel is essential to the housing mission because it is the first step in providing safe and secure housing.

The superintendent of Schools for Vermilion Parish talks about the floodwall that's being built to protect Dozier Elementary.

Due to time and logistical constraints, in Eagle, Alaska FEMA is providing gravel to disaster survivors for the first time ever. The gravel is essential to the housing mission because it is the first step in providing safe and secure housing.

Volusia County Fire Services is a great example of the statewide effort to use FEMA funds to make Florida's public agencies more able to face a future disaster. Some of the record funds triggered by the 2004 hurricane season were used to install storm shutters, windscreens or hardened bay doors at nearly 100 fire stations in Central Florida.

Hurricane Charley destroyed or severely damaged 40 percent of Charlotte County's public schools in 2004. During the rebuilding effort, school officials along with FEMA and state recovery managers committed to rebuilding stronger. The team also worked together to better protect schools that weren't badly damaged. All this means Charlotte County will avoid or reduce damage should disaster strike in the future.

As their homes are rebuilt, the lives of the disaster survivors of Eagle, Alaska are slowly getting back to normal.

Mennonite and Samaritan's Purse volunteers in Eagle, AK, have been rebuilding homes at lightning pace. Their free labor is essential in making FEMA assistance go much further for families affected by the disaster.

Volunteers from the Christian Reformed World Relief Committee help disaster survivors in Tanana, Alaska, repair their homes.

As the fourth anniversary of Hurricane Katrina approaches, the President of Plaquemines Parish reflects on the areas recovery progress over the last year.

Administrator Fugate delivers a short preparedness message right after the grand opening of Los Angeles' new Emergency Operations Center.

Jefferson Parish President Aaron Broussard talks about the parish recovery efforts as the fourth anniversary of Hurricane Katrina approaches.

New Orleans Mayor Ray Nagin talks about the city's recovery as the fourth anniversary of Hurricane Katrina approaches.

September 16, 2009 marks five years since Hurricane Ivan devastated the Florida Panhandle. Emergency Managers reflect on their response to the storm.

Horace Smoke, Second Chief of Stevens Village, AK, talks about the decision to allow volunteers into his village to help rebuild from spring flooding.

In order to encourage Americans to prepare themselves, their families and their communities, the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA), in partnership with The Advertising Council, has sponsored public service advertisements (PSAs) that educate and empower Americans to prepare for and respond to all kinds of emergencies. The Ready Campaign asks individuals to do three key things to prepare for the unexpected: (1) get an emergency supply kit, (2) make a family emergency plan, and (3) be informed about the different types of emergencies that could occur and their appropriate responses.

More PSAs can be found at: http://www.ready.gov/america/about/psa.html

A short video message from Administrator Fugate about the importance of the private sector and working as part of a team. Recorded after meeting with Google.

FEMA Assistant Administrator for the Disaster Assistance Directorate, Beth Zimmerman, visits villages in Alaska that were affected by spring flooding and ice jams.

During the Alaska recovery efforts from the spring 2009 flooding and ice jams many logistical difficulties were encountered due to rural Alaska's varying infrastructure.

The residents of Alaska have been able to bounce back from a very devestating flood and take ownership of their recovery

Recently, Hawaii State Civil Defense and the FEMA Region IX Office signed an official Memorandum of Understanding that states that they will use their new Catastrophic Response Plan for hurricanes and their all hazards Operations Plan during future disasters. This video explains the MOU, the CATPLAN and the OPLAN.

Administrator Fugate provides a short update on FEMA activities in response to the Tsunami that struck American Samoa.

B-roll from American Samoa demonstrating the power restoration mission following the earthquake and tsunami. Power restoration is a joint federal- territory effort.

Kenneth Tingman, FEMA's Federal Coordinating Officer for the disaster response and recovery efforts in American Samoa, discusses the operational objectives for the upcoming week.

Capt. Michael Bryce, U.S. Health and Human Services, discuss the role of Disaster Medical Assistance Teams in support of FEMA's response to the earthquake and tsunami disaster in American Samoa

American Samoa Governor, Togiola T.A. Tulafono, provides an update on the FEMA response and recovery efforts in American Samoa.

FEMA generators continue to arrive in American Samoa to support the power restoration mission. The FEMA generators featured in this video will go to power critical facilities.

This is an update on the FEMA response and recovery efforts in American Samoa by Ken Tingman, Federal Coordinating Officer.

A compilation showing supplies bound for American Samoa being loaded at FEMA's Fort Worth logistics center.

Capt. Michael Bryce, U.S. Public Health Service, discuss the role of Disaster Medical Assistance Teams in support of FEMA's response to the earthquake and tsunami disaster in American Samoa.

Today, FEMA representatives met with American Samoa Village Mayors to discuss how the FEMA Individual Assistance program will be administered. At the conclusion of the meeting, several mayors spoke on how the disaster has impacted their villages.

Hurricane Katrina devastated Southern University at New Orleans. FEMA has obligated more than $73 million to help the school rebuild.

Today, FEMA representatives met with American Samoa Village Mayors to discuss how the FEMA Individual Assistance program will be administered. At the conclusion of the meeting, several mayors spoke on how the disaster has impacted their villages.

One week after a tsunami hit American Somoa, Governor Togiola Tulafono and Kenneth Tingman, FEMA Federal Coordinating Officer discuss the recovery actions that have occured during that period.

Captain Michael Bryce, U.S. Public Health Service, and Toby Clairmont, Team Commander, Hawaii Disaster Medical Assistance Team, describe a medical evacuation of an infant from American Samoa using a cargo plane that was used to bring in disaster supplies.

Major John Adams, Company Commander, U.S. Army, describes how FEMA short-term housing packages and commodities are provided to American Samoans impacted by the earthquake and tsunami.

One week after a tsunami hit American Somoa, Governor Togiola Tulafono and Kenneth Tingman, FEMA Federal Coordinating Officer discuss the recovery actions that have occurred during that period.

In July of 2009, after months of rain and flooding, a federal disaster was declared in Maine. Communities, like Norridgewock, worked with FEMA officials to recover from damages.

Frenchboro, a small island community off the coast of Maine, suffered damages after severe rain storms in 2009. FEMA Public Assistance project specialists were sent to determine if the town would be eligible for federal funds.

In April of 2007 severe storms damaged a piping plover nesting habitat in Ogunquit, Maine. Two years later, the stakeholders gathered to celebrate the completion of a project that will help to protect the plovers in the future.

As part of its mission to restore electrical power in American Samoa, FEMA flew in generators using cargo planes. On one mission, FEMA used an Antonov 225 cargo plane. It is the world's largest fixed wing aircraft.Mark Ackerman, FEMA Staging Area Group Supervisor, explains the logistical considerations that went into using this cargo plane.

The Penobscot Nation is working with FEMA to prepare their community to be ready in the event of a disaster.

Administrator Fugate speaks about the important role of tribes in disaster preparedness and response at the National Congress of American Indians.

enneth R. Tingman, federal coordinating officer for the earthquake, tsunami and flooding disaster in American Samoa starting Sept. 29, 2009, describes the recovery progress made in three weeks by FEMA, its federal partners and the American Samoa Government. Major topics are debris removal, HAZMAT removal, registration and financial assistance for disaster survivors, installation of generators to restore electrical power and immediate sheltering provisions now being followed-up with planning for mid-term and long-term housing solutions.

A disaster can strike at anytime, anywhere. One group or agency cannot provide all the needs of survivors alone. It takes a well oiled, well unified process to make it work.

Equipos de alcance comunitario y educativo de FEMA estan trabajando para ayudar a las personas afectadas por las inundaciones de Georgia. Los equipos comparten informacion sobre programas de recuperacion federal, erradicacion de moho y maneras de preparar las viviendas para futuros desastres.

FEMA assigned the U.S. Coast Guard to the task of removing hazardous material that was washed into Pago Pago Harbor by the tsunami of September 29. The debris included vehicles, which threaten pollution from their gasoline, oil, battery acid, anti-freeze and other fluids. The Coast Guard contracted with Pacific Environmental Corp. (PENCO) to do the work. PENCO sent divers and it's 100-foot dive tender "American Islander" from Hawaii. The mission was completed in about three weeks under Coast Guard supervision.

FEMA helps individuals and families take their first steps toward long-term recovery from a disaster. Later, voluntary agencies band together to form Long-Term Recovery Committees, a tool for communities to fulfill the unmet needs of individuals and families. In Georgia, various voluntary agencies received training on how to form a long-term recovery committee.

FEMA partners with the SBA to help disaster survivors get back on their feet. The SBA provides low-interest loans to homeowners, renters and businesses of all sizes.

Nancy Ward, FEMA Region IX administrator, viewed the recovery progress in American Samoa following the devastating earthquake, tsunami and flooding of September 29, 2009. Then she and territorial Gov. Togliola Tulafono held a news conference at the Joint Field Office to describe their impressions. Both praised the work of the other. Ms. Ward lauded the spirit and clean-up efforts of the people of American Samoa.

Larger, stronger and more durable tents are being distributed to families whose homes were destroyed or severely damaged by the earthquake, tsunami and flooding disaster of September 29, 2009. They will provide better interim shelter until dwellings can be repaired or replaced.

Tsunami debris littering private property in American Samoa became such a public health hazard that the Territorial Governor asked FEMA for a waiver to allow it to reimburse his government for removing that debris. The exception was granted. FEMA and American Samoan government officials held a series of meetings in affected villages in late October through November to explain how the Public Assistance debris removal program worked. One such meeting was held in the Mayor's Guest House in the village of Nua Seetaga. FEMA and territorial officials, including Kenneth R. Tingman, Federal Coordinating Officer, wore traditional Samoan clothing out of respect for the traditional culture of the villages.

AmeriCorps, a community service organization, and FEMA work together to assist disaster survivors. A ten-member AmeriCorps team is spending one month helping flood survivors in Georgia.

Sixty days following the September 2009 severe storms and flooding in Georgia, FEMA and GEMA officials held a teleconference with reporters. The event highlighted a partnership that's shaping successful disaster recovery.

FEMA helps the town of Jean Lafitte, Louisiana, rebuild after four hurricanes in four years.

If you live in a county designated as a federal disaster area, you may be eligible for disaster grants or low-interest loans. This short video explains how to apply.

Following a disaster declared by the president, FEMA partners with the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) to help disaster survivors. The SBA offers low-interest disaster loans to homeowners, renters and businesses of all sizes.

Pou itilizasyon moun ki nan zon dezas declare pa Prezidan an.

Local emergency managers from the metro Atlanta area share their perspective on the recovery from the historic floods of 2009.

When the U.S. Navy began administration of the newly acquired territory of American Samoa in 1900, it had to buy land to create a cemetery for naval personal. It was and still is the custom of Samoans to bury their loved ones in front of their homes. There were no cemeteries for foreigners. That historic cemetery, the Satala Cemetery, was damaged by the tsunami on September 29, 2009. The American Samoan government has applied for a FEMA Public Assistance grant to help pay for the cemetery's restoration.

Following Georgia's historic flooding, FEMA specialists are analyzing and interpreting thousands of pieces of information to better understand the disaster's impacts.

Holy Cross School was destroyed by Hurricane Katrina. The school is now rebuilding with the help of more than $88 million obligated by FEMA.

In agreement with the American Samoan government, FEMA has contracted to build about 70 concrete block homes to replace some of the 275 dwellings destroyed by the earthquake and tsunami of September 29, 2009. Owners of the other homes chose to rebuild their homes on their own with the help of a FEMA cash grant. The new two or three-bedroom homes and their homesites will meet all applicable American Samoan and federal regulations.

After a devastating flood in September 2009, an Atlanta family took a dramatic step. By raising its home by eight feet, the family hopes to protect its home against future flood damage.

The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency returned to American Samoa in January to complete the clean-up and removal of hazardous waste from the tsunami. The agency also neutralized and removed pre-existing HAZMAT conditions.

FEMA recovery specialists are helping Georgia community leaders identify and resolve long-term issues that stem from the historic floods of 2009.

FEMA, The Virginia Department of Emergency Management, and local emergency managers hosted a flood mitigation and flood insurance outreach event in Newport News and Hampton, Virginia, on January 23 and 24, 2010.

Hurricane Katrina severely damaged Warren Easton Charter High School. FEMA obligated more than $3.2 million to help the school rebuild and re-open.

FEMA Administrator Craig Fugate talks about speaking at the Microsoft Public Safety Symposium.

60 second PSA on ways to prepare for flooding.

FEMA and VDEM organized a door to door outreach campaign in the Ocean View neighborhood of Norfolk, Virginia, to educate renters on the availability of flood insurance.

Gloucester County, Virginia, homeowner Bain Schultz talks about how effective her home elevation has been.

Flooding from Katrina inundated Dillard University. FEMA obligated more than $61 million to help the school reconstruct its campus.

Hurricane Ike survivor, Jeanne Leslie, has been living in a FEMA provided Temporary Housing Unit since the storm destroyed her house in San Leon, Texas. After a little more than a year of residing in this unit while deciding whether to repair, rebuild or replace her damaged home, FEMA gave Leslie the option of purchasing this mobile home for her permanent use. Jeanne shares her experience and thanks in this short video of a survivor's success story.

Flooding from Katrina inundated Dillard University. FEMA obligated more than $61 million to help the school reconstruct its campus.

Hurricane Katrina damaged Andrew H. Wilson Charter School in the community of Broadmoor. FEMA obligated $28 million to help the school and the neighborhood rebuild.

The Incident Command System (ICS) helped the National Park Service respond after its headquarters in American Samoa was destroyed by the tsunami on September 29, 2009.

Shortly after the tsunami struck American Samoa on September 29, 2009, recovery began from Hawaii where Gov. Togiola Tulafono was conducting territorial business. He contacted FEMA's Kenneth R. Tingman, who is based in Honolulu and together they guided a major disaster declaration through the White House that same day. Then they flew overnight to American Samoa with personnel and supplies to begin the task.

FEMA's Mobile Emergency Response Support (MERS) unit from Denver, CO is taking communications equipment and other supplies to support disaster activities in South Dakota. The team departed from its Denver facility on Friday, March 12, 2010 to head to South Dakota.

FEMA Region VIII activated its Regional Response Coordination Center in Denver, CO on March 1, 2010. The center was activated to support FEMA teams working in South Dakota and North Dakota.

FEMA's Mobile Emergency Response Support (MERS) unit from Denver, CO is taking communications equipment and other supplies to support disaster activities in North Dakota. The team departed from its Denver facility on Tuesday, March 16, 2010 to head to North Dakota.

The Region VIII Incident Response Vehicle (IRV) was deployed to Lake LaMoure to provide live streaming video to the State Water Commission and the State EOC showing the spillway erosion that was happening at the Cottonwood Dam.

Highlights from FEMA Administrator Craig Fugate's speech to 2010 National Hurricane Conference attendees. Fugate calls on attendees to recruit the public to be part of the emergency management team.

In March of 2010 spring rains caused massive flooding in Rhode Island. These images capture the efforts of first responders to protect lives and property during the first 3 days of the floods that struck Southern New England .

FEMA Administrator Craig Fugate announced the launch of FEMAs new mobile website, m.fema.gov. The mobile website makes it easier to access critical information regarding emergency preparedness and what to do before and after a disaster right on a smartphone.

How the Preliminary Damage Assessment Process Works: In February, 2010, Maine was struck by severe wind, rain, and snow. Working with state and local agencies, FEMA conducted a Preliminary Damage Assesment.

FEMA is supporting the State of Mississippi in its response to and recovery from a tornado. Federal Coordinating Officer Mike Bolch and Mississippi Emergency Management Director Mike Womack discuss what's happened so far.

FEMA Deputy Administrator Rich Serino talks about the importance of having a disaster plan for your pets. May 8th is National Animal Disaster Preparedness Day.

Hurricane Katrina devastated the Orleans Parish Prison (OPP) system. FEMA has obligated $28.8 million to replace the OPP facility known as Templeman One and Two.

Many Mississippians affected by the April 23-24, 2010 tornadoes received help from the American Red Cross, state and federal recovery specialists.

A Disaster Recovery Center in Yazoo City, Miss. helps tornado survivors get information about available disaster assistance programs from FEMA, federal, state and local partners.

FCO Mark Neveau and SCO Lou Trammell for Arizona's declared disaster of January 18th - 22nd (DR-1888) emphasize the role of partnership and training in disaster response and recovery.

FEMA Administrator Craig Fugate on the importance of personal preparedness and new ways to follow FEMA during the 2010 hurricane season that begins on June 1.

We are providing the links to FEMA's presence on other third party sites for your reference. FEMA does not endorse any non-government websites, companies or applications.

Representatives from FEMA, our state and local partners, and private nonprofits discuss the importance of private nonprofits during disasters and their eligibility for assistance.

FEMA Deputy Administrator Rich Serino reminds us of the importance of making sure you and your pets are prepared for disaster.

Unused or hardly used furniture has been removed from returned damaged Temporary Housing Units at the FEMA Bon Wier Staging Site in Texas. This furniture, as well as some appliances, have been stored and used to replace any broken items in units currently housing survivors. At this stage of hurricane recovery, the stored furniture is no longer needed since temporary housing is coming to a close as Hurricane Ike survivors find more permanent dwellings. This excess furniture has been donated to non-profit agencies to disperse among needy applicants.

Temporary Housing Units were provided by FEMA to qualified survivors of Hurricane Ike in Texas for temporary use while they repair or rebuild their damaged homes, or find an alternative, more permanent dwelling. This video reveals the entire cycle of use these manufactured units experience from start to finish and is typical in each declared disaster where temporary housing is needed.

Administrator Fugate Tours Flood Damage in Tennessee

A tornado survivor received the keys to his new home: A Mississippi Cottage. The survivor purchased the home, at an affordable cost, from the Mississippi Emergency Management Agency following the FEMA-funded Alternative Housing Program. Mississippi First lady Marsha Barbour participated in the key presentation ceremony.

FEMA Deputy Administrator Rich Serino talks about his meeting with local volunteer groups while touring recovery efforts after flooding in Kentucky.

FEMA Administrator Craig Fugate traveled to Tennessee to ensure state and local officals have the support they need to recover from the floods.

The Tennessee floods of early May 2010 washed away the home of Mike and Cindy Lee.

In early May of 2010,Tennessee experienced widespread flooding.What follows are images from that event. (No Closed Captioning)

Brian Hyer of the Utah Department of Public Safety highlights the accomplishments of the "Be Ready Utah" public-private partnership program, to attendees of FEMA's 2010 External Affairs Conference, June, 2010 in Washington, DC.

When a natural disaster looks to be imminent, FEMA and other Federal Agencies regularly preposition various assets to prepare for rapid distribution. In preparation for Hurricane Alex, these agencies set up a staging area in the Randolph Auxiliary Air Force Base in Seguin, TX.

In the event Hurricane Alex touched land in southeast Texas, 103 trucks with commodities were ready to mobilize to the impacted area.

See how the ongoing partnership between HUD and FEMA continues to make a difference for Tennessee flood disaster survivors.

FEMA Administrator Craig Fugate outlines the new enhanced features of the FEMA mobile site, m.fema.gov, including the capability for disaster survivors to register for assistance via their smartphone.

Deputy Administrator Rich Serino reminds people to keep an eye on the progress of Tropical Storm Bonnie, evacuate if ordered by local officials and to visit ready.gov for preparedness information.

Administrator Craig Fugate marks the 20th Anniversary of the Americans with Disabilities Act by commenting on the importance of including all communities in preparedness planning.

Marcie Roth, Director of FEMA's Office of Disability Integration and Coordination speaks about the 20th anniversary of the Americans with Disabilities Act.

FEMA's Enviornmental and Historical Preservation team supports recovery and mitigation in places of historic or envionmental significance. This video highlights the restoration of an historic 72-year old bridge in Redwood Falls, MN damaged by the floods of 2010.

Follow FEMA region IX into the recovery eforts after a 7.2 magnitude earthquake struck southern California. Take a closer look at the water conveyance systems, and the impacts to both the county irrigation systems of Imperial and the agricultural communities.

FEMA Administrator Craig Fugate provides remarks at the American Red Cross Crisis Data Summit on August 12, 2010. The Summit brought together thought leaders, government agencies, non-profit organizations, and concerned citizens to discuss the role of social media during disaster response.

FEMA community relations teams in south Texas visit homes affected by Hurricane Alex and Tropical Depression #2 in La Grulla, TX. Teams went throughout Hidalgo County to make sure residents receive information regarding available disaster assistance.

Administrator Craig Fugate talks about the recovery from Hurricanes Katrina and Rita from a rebuilt school in St. Bernard Parish, Louisiana. Visit http://www.fema.gov/rebuildinglives for more information on FEMA's role in the rebuilding and recovery efforts.

The Biloxi lighthouse is one of the most familiar landmarks on the Mississippi Gulf Coast.Thanks to FEMA funding, the lighthouse shines brightly again following Hurricane Katrina. Visit http://www.fema.gov/rebuildinglives for more information on FEMA's role in the rebuilding and recovery efforts.

Following Hurricane Katrina, FEMA committed to supporting first responders by providing a grant to harden a fire station in Bay St. Louis, MS. Visit http://www.fema.gov/rebuildinglives for more information on FEMA's role in the rebuilding and recovery efforts.

The new St. Martin High School in Jackson County, Mississippi opened August 5th, 2010. FEMA Mitigation and Public Assistance funding helped build the school with something extra...a hurricane shelter. Visit http://www.fema.gov/rebuildinglives for more information on FEMA's role in the rebuilding and recovery efforts.

FEMA Deputy Administrator Rich Serino marks the 5th Anniversary of the landfall of Hurricane Katrina by highlighting some of the many changes that have taken place at FEMA.

Hurricane Katrina wiped out Waveland, Mississippi's historic district, but spared half of an old school. FEMA Public Assistance dollars saved the city's last remaining link to the past. Visit http://www.fema.gov/rebuildinglives for more information on FEMA's role in the rebuilding and recovery efforts.

FEMA Region 6 Administrator Tony Russell reflects on the recovery progress made in Louisiana after Hurricanes Katrina and Rita. Visit http://www.fema.gov/rebuildinglives for more information on FEMA's role in the rebuilding and recovery efforts.

Administrator Craig Fugate reminds us of the importance of personal preparedness ahead of Hurricane Earl which will approach the east coast this week.

Administrator Fugate provides an update with the latest on Hurricane Earl. Recorded on 9/3/2010.

FEMA Administrator Craig Fugate gives a final update on Hurricane Earl, and the importance of being prepared. For more information on FEMA's hurricane preparations and response, visit www.fema.gov/hurricanes.

Administrator Fugate uses the example of the San Bruno, California explosion and fire as a reason to make sure you and your family are prepared for any disaster.

FEMA employees are available to help applicants who need assistance in their language.

This video covers those who qualify and what specifically qualifies for an SBA disaster assistance loan. For more information on disaster assistance, visit disasterassistance.gov.

A message from FEMA Administrator Craig Fugate and acting U.S. Fire Administrator Glenn Gaines on simple things you can do to protect yourself from fires in the home as part of 2010 Fire Prevention Week.

As a part of continuing efforts to aid those affected by disasters, FEMA operates Mobile Disaster Recovery Centers that provide flexibility to affected areas. This video highlights Mobile Disaster Recovery Centers in use in south Texas in response to Hurricane Alex.

FEMA hosted the first Latino Leadership Summit to bring together business and community leaders of Latino communities from all over the United States to discuss how we can all come together to help meet the needs of our entire communities with preparedness and assistance messaging before and after disaster strikes our communities.

Administrator Craig Fugate and "Abe", one of the "Racing Presidents" from the Washington Nationals baseball team on simple steps you can take to save lives during Fire Prevention Week.

Milwaukee Disaster Recovery Centers have become part of a FEMA pilot program which uses banners to help people waiting in line for assistance. These banners answer commonly asked questions people have when applying for assistance.

Jason Nelson, Legislative Affairs Specialist, talks about his role in briefing Congressional staff on the agency's disaster operations. To learn more about career opportunities at FEMA and to see testimonials from FEMA employees, visit www.fema.gov/careers.

FEMA Deputy Administrator Rich Serino at the National Association of the State EMS Officials, discussing the whole of community preparedness. In a "maximum of maximums" catastrophic event, the entire community work with all of our partners: Federal, State, and local governments, but especially the public.

FEMA Administrator Craig Fugate talks about working as a team with emergency managers from across the country at the National Emergency Managers Association 2010 Conference in Little Rock, Arkansas.

FEMA Administrator Craig Fugate and Red Cross President Gail McGovern sign a Memorandum of Agreement strengthening a key relationship in disaster response and recovery.

Administrator Fugate asks for your help in making the nation more prepared by submitting your ideas at http://www.challenge.gov/fema/87.

Administrator Craig Fugate discusses FEMA's continuing state partnerships to assist disaster survivors. In this video, he highlights collaboration with the state of Florida.

FEMA hosted visitors at the opening of the new Atlanta Distribution Center to highlight how the facility will help better serve disaster survivors.

Take a sneak peek into our Regional Response Coordination Center (RRCC) at our Regional office in Chicago, IL. It was activated last week in preparation of the major winter storm that affected much of the Midwest. The RRCC brings together FEMA's federal and state partners and nongovernmental organizations to collaborate on planning for and response to disasters.

In this video, we'll discuss what you can do to facilitate the Environmental and Historic Preservation review of your community's projects. Each project is unique and may be subject to different local, state, and federal environmental and historic preservation laws.

Two earthquake mitigation activity testimonials from California business owners/operators. Mr. Hoyt Fields of Hearst Castle in San Simeon, CA and Mr. Jim Saunders of Pasa de Robles, CA both provide brief explanations of the earthquake mitigation activities that they have taken to protect their businesses.

In this presentation, you will learn about the proper procurement, small and large projects, deadlines, alternate and improved projects, special considerations, and documentation.

The Texas Division of Emergency Management or TDEM works in conjunction with the Federal Emergency Management Agency or FEMA to administer the Public Assistance Grants Program.

Administrator Fugate talks about the new registration process for Citizen Corps Councils and Community Emergency Response Teams (CERT) at citizencorps.gov.

Floodplain managers from all five states in Region 6 came together to share mitigation ideas, lessons learned and best practices in relation to the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) at the semi-annual Community Assistance Program (CAP) meeting held in Denton, TX.

During the 2010 spring floods in Massachusetts and Rhode Island, National Grid responded as part of the emergency response team. Pre-planning and coordination between the private sector and government agencies was crucial.

During the Spring 2010 Massachusetts floods, the Noyes family's historic home was flooded. Americorps volunteers assisted with the cleanup of mold in the 100 year old home.

When flooding hit the town of Alstead, New Hampshire in October 2005, town officials and volunteers formed a team to address the long term recovery of their community. Four women know as the flood babes were instrumental in the town's recovery.

In Massachusetts Spring 2010 rain caused widespread flooding and damage to property and homes. In Freetown Massachusetts, high water threatens to overrun a run a old dam. The state and local community responded and coordinated with FEMA.

The preparation and gathering together of groups for the assistance of long term recovery projects. The purpose of long-term recovery groups is to hear cases of unmet need. Groups are comprised of voluntary organizations working with government agencies.

FEMA Deputy Administrator Richard Serino visited The University of North Texas in Denton to speak with students about FEMA's role in disasters and about careers in emergency management.

The State of Oklahoma hosted the ninth FEMA Region 6 Partnership meeting to talk about strengthening existing partnerships in emergency management.

FEMA Administrator Craig Fugate answers some of your questions submitted through e-mail, Facebook, Twitter, and the FEMA blog.

Administrator Fugate addresses members of the emergency management team at the 2011 National Hurricane Conference in Atlanta, Ga.

FEMA is working in conjunction with the Alabama Emergency Management Agency, the Alabama Forestry Commission, of course, DHS and the military in providing relief efforts for the tornado survivors of the latest storms that hit Alabama.

A Disaster Recovery Center can provide a survivor with information about assistance available from state and federal agencies. Here's the story of a disaster survivor going through various stations at a disaster recovery center.

University of Alabama alumni and current National Football League player Javier Arenas talks about the importance of registering for assistance with FEMA.

An disaster survivor talks about the process he went through when he needed help removing some downed trees after the Alabama tornadoes of April 2011.

Administrator Fugate explains how you can help the survivors of the devastating tornado that struck Joplin, MO.

U.S. Secretary of Homeland Security Janet Napolitano toured Joplin, Missouri and pledged to help residents rebuild the tornado-ravaged city.

Mayor Walter Maddox of Tuscaloosa, Ala. credits the Incident Command System training he and city officials took at FEMA's Emergency Management Institute with helping respond to the tornados of April 27, 2011 in a coordinated way.

Morehouse, Missouri was inundated by flooding in late April of 2011. Almost every home was touched by the disaster in one way or another. AmeriCorps Hoopa Tribal Civilian Community Corps has spent many hours in the community hauling trash, scrapping floors and cleaning homes. The city of Morehouse has honored them for their service at a community picnic.

Administrator Fugate talks about the training available at the Center for Domestic Preparedness. To learn more about the CDP, visit http://cdp.dhs.gov.

Reggie Kelly, NFL Tight End, joined FEMA for a visit to Smithville, Misssissippi. He met with survivors, visited schools, and toured a local United Way to offer hope and encouraging words.

Administrator Fugate provides a brief update on Tropical Storm Emily and reminds everyone to make sure they're prepared for a hurricane.

FEMA Administrator Craig Fugate encourages provides an update on hurricane Irene. The storm moved through Puerto Rico on August 21 and may threaten the Southeast U.S. coast over the next several days.

Administrator Craig Fugate provides a quick update on the progress of Hurricane Irene as it threatens the east coast of the United States. Those along the east coast should take steps to get prepared today at www.Ready.gov/hurricanes.

Administrator Fugate gives a brief update on the earthquake that shook the eastern United States on August 23, with tips on what to do after an earthquake.

FEMA Administrator Craig Fugate provides a quick update on Hurricane Irene, encouraging those along the East Coast to get prepared. You can get started today at http://www.Ready.gov/hurricanes.

When disaster strikes, partnerships between government agencies and voluntary organizations, like the American Red Cross and the Vermont National Guard, can play a vital role in providing survivors with much needed assistance and life saving supplies.

The video shows how a person can pack an emergency supply kit so they will be ready next time a disaster strikes their area.

Between June 1 and August 30 2011, New England was struck by a series of disasters, including tornadoes, a tropical storm and flash flooding. This is the story of FEMA's support to the affected states, communities and disaster survivors in the region.

FEMA wants everyone to know about the upcoming Emergency Alert System (EAS) test and how it may impact them. Please share this message with your communities and through your social networks.

Follow Dave Brown, FEMA Public Assistance Debris Task Force Leader, through the debris removal processes and watch as he identifies the six categories of eligible debris removal. The debris removal guidlines are measured in efforts to expedite the debris removal process for applicants.