Less than One Week Left to Register for New Jersey Ida Disaster Assistance

TRENTON, N.J. – Less than one week remains for New Jersey homeowners and renters who had property damage or loss caused by remnants of Hurricane Ida from Sept. 1–3, 2021, to apply for federal disaster assistance. The deadline to apply is Monday, Dec. 6, 2021.

Federal disaster assistance for individuals and families can include money for rental assistance, essential home repairs, personal property losses, and other serious disaster-related needs not covered by insurance.

If you live in Bergen, Essex, Gloucester, Hudson, Hunterdon, Mercer, Middlesex, Morris, Passaic, Somerset, Union or Warren counties, you can register for disaster assistance, update your contact information, ask questions about a letter from FEMA, get information about FEMA home inspections, or learn how to appeal a FEMA decision by:

• Going online at DisasterAssistance.gov;
• Downloading the FEMA app; or
• Calling 800-621-3362 (TTY: 800-462-7585). The toll-free telephone lines are currently operating 7 a.m. to 1 a.m. daily. If you use a relay service, such as video relay service (VRS), captioned telephone service or others, give FEMA the number for that service. Multilingual operators are available.

You should have the following information available when you are ready to register:

• Address of the damaged primary dwelling
• Current mailing address, telephone number and Social Security number
• Your insurance information
• Total household annual income
• Routing and account numbers for checking or savings accounts for direct deposit; and
• A description of disaster damage and losses

For the latest information visit fema.gov/disaster/4614. Follow the FEMA Region 2 Twitter account at twitter.com/FEMAregion2.

amir.nijem Tue, 11/30/2021 - 17:37

FEMA Releases Interactive Online IPAWS Toolkit

WASHINGTON -- FEMA and the Department of Homeland Security's Science and Technology Directorate released an interactive, web-based version of the Integrated Public Alert and Warning System Program Planning Toolkit today. Building on the success of the five-resource toolkit released in late 2020, the new free online tool will assist new and existing alerting authorities across the country to create and support an effective program for alerts, warnings and notifications. An effective alerting plan helps communities because authorities can reach the public quickly during an emergency, when minutes matter and can save lives.

IPAWS is FEMA’s national system for local alerting that provides authenticated emergency and life-saving information to the public through mobile phones using Wireless Emergency Alerts, to radio and television via the Emergency Alert System and on the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration’s Weather Radio. More than 1,600 state, local, tribal and territorial authorities are able to send alerts over IPAWS.

FEMA and DHS worked to identify gaps in existing IPAWS alerting resources available to alerting authorities. A result of that partnership is the toolkit’s enhancement into a new step-by-step resource that includes:

• An alerting plan template creator that allows authorities to create a comprehensive alerting plan, including basic information and staffing plans, before a crisis, an alert message template creator that walks a user through the research-based recommended format.
• Frequently asked questions, fact sheets and additional resources shared by public safety agencies that will assist users with creating their own plans.

The new toolkit was produced based on recent innovative changes to technology and was derived from the collection of successful practices and lessons learned from hundreds of data points, including more than 200 emergency managers, public information officers, alerting originators and experts, as well as administrators.

The new toolkit will assist public safety agencies in developing comprehensive alerting plans that minimize alerting delay challenges; plan for future alerts, warnings and notifications enhancements; facilitate interoperability across different technologies; and improve information sharing among emergency management and public safety officials.

mayshaunt.gary Tue, 11/30/2021 - 17:15

FEMA Assistance for Furnaces, Wells and Septic Systems

NASHVILLE, Tenn.  – With winter approaching, residents in Middle Tennessee who applied to FEMA for the severe storms and flooding on Aug. 21 may be just noticing disaster damage to their furnaces and water heaters. Others may have noticed additional damage to wells and septic systems. Survivors who missed damage to these systems after the disaster, may follow up with FEMA to learn whether they may be eligible for reimbursement for the cost of repairing or replacing these items.

To be considered for this reimbursement residents must have already registered with FEMA by the Oct. 25 deadline. Survivors must then file an appeal and provide estimates or receipts from a licensed contractor. If your insurance covered repair of the utilities, by law FEMA cannot duplicate benefits.

FEMA may also provide reimbursement for mitigation measures to keep furnaces and water heaters safe, sanitary and functional in the future. These measures are limited to components that were damaged by the disaster and functioning before it occurred.

Mitigation measures include elevating a furnace or water heater above the floor to help reduce the likelihood of future flood damage. FEMA recommends elevating a furnace or water heater on a framed platform. For more information on techniques for elevating a furnace or water heater, refer to chapter nine in FEMA’s Homeowner’s Guide to Retrofitting 3rd Edition (2014).

Before elevating a furnace or water heater, homeowners should check their local utility company and building codes to find out whether any requirements might limit elevation.

Those who have questions about eligibility for these repairs and filing an appeal can call FEMA’s Helpline at 800-621-3362 or (TTY) 800-462-7585

 For more information on Tennessee’s disaster recovery, visit www.tn.gov/tema.html and www.fema.gov/disaster/4609. You may also follow FEMA on www.facebook.com/fema and Twitter @FEMARegion4.

FEMA’s mission is helping people before, during, and after disasters.

felicia.jordan Tue, 11/30/2021 - 16:28

Disaster Recovery Centers Open in Cut Off and Montegut

BATON ROUGE, La. – FEMA Disaster Recovery Centers are now open in Cut Off and Montegut to help survivors affected by Hurricane Ida. Survivors can get help with their disaster assistance applications, upload documents and have their questions about federal disaster assistance answered at the centers.

All centers follow COVID-19 precautions. Masks are required for employees, volunteers and survivors. 

Survivors can meet face to face with FEMA specialists at the following locations:

DRCs Opening Nov. 30 Tarpon Heights Shopping Center

Galliano Government Complex (parking lot)

16245 East Main Street

Cut Off, LA 70345

• Hours: 9 a.m.- 6 p.m. Monday-Saturday

Montegut Recreation Center       

107 Recreation Drive (southwest corner of Cross & Dolphin Streets)

Montegut, LA 70377

• Hours: 9 a.m.- 6 p.m. Monday-Saturday

 

For other details, check the FEMA app (under Disaster Resources, select Talk to FEMA in Person) or visit the FEMA.gov/DRC for a complete list of DRCs currently open in Louisiana.

kiarash.ghiam Tue, 11/30/2021 - 15:01

New Associate Administrator Joins FEMA Leadership Team

WASHINGTON -- FEMA Administrator Deanne Criswell swore in Anne Bink today as the agency’s Associate Administrator of the Office of Response and Recovery.

Bink was appointed by President Biden earlier this year. In her new position, she will oversee the areas of response, recovery, logistics and field operations.

“I’m excited and humbled to lead and work alongside a group of dedicated and talented emergency managers,” said Bink. “FEMA, along with our federal, state and local partners, continues working in challenging times, as preparing for and responding to severe weather is a year-round exercise. I am committed to working alongside the administrator, our FEMA team and partners in helping people before, during and after disasters.”

Prior to joining FEMA, Bink served as the New York State Division of Homeland Security and Emergency Services Deputy Commissioner for Disaster Recovery. In that role, she oversaw a portfolio of over $20 billion in active disasters. She also oversaw the development of major resiliency projects, including the Bay Park Conveyance Project and the Suffolk County Coastal Resiliency Initiative, which will reduce nitrogen along Long Island’s shoreline and protect against storm surge in extreme weather events.

Bink also served in various leadership roles within the New York State Division of the Budget, where she developed and negotiated key budget initiatives and policies, including an expansion of pre-kindergarten programs and a paid family leave program.

luther.wills-dudich Mon, 11/29/2021 - 23:16

Three FEMA Disaster Recovery Centers Closing in Fairfield, New London Counties

HARTFORD, Conn. – Three Disaster Recovery Centers will be closing this week. While these sites will be closing help is still available, FEMA specialists are still just a phone call or mouse click away.

One DRC in New London County will permanently close tomorrow, Nov. 30 at 6 p.m. The DRC is located at Three Rivers Community College, 574 New London Turnpike (E Wing building, enter from north entrance), Norwich, CT 06360

Two DRCs in Fairfield County will permanently close Friday, Dec. 3 at 6 p.m.

• Bridgeport Public Library, 925 Broad St., Bridgeport, CT, 06604
• Norwalk Fire Department, 121 Connecticut Ave., Norwalk, CT 06854

While these sites are closing, face-to-face assistance is still available at Glenville Fire Station, 266 Glenville Rd., Greenwich, CT 06831 until Dec. 10.

Survivors can also find their nearest DRC online at fema.gov/drc, or text DRC to 43362. Standard message and data rates apply

Help is Still Available

Disaster survivors can still access disaster information and assistance the following ways: online at DisasterAssistance.gov; by calling 800-621-3362; (TTY:800-462-7585); or download the FEMA app available for smart phones. The toll-free telephone lines operate from 7 a.m. to 11 p.m. ET, seven days a week. If you use a relay service, such as video relay service (VRS), captioned telephone service or others, give FEMA the number for that service. Multilingual operators are available.

The deadline to apply for disaster assistance with FEMA is Dec. 29.

adrien.urbani Mon, 11/29/2021 - 21:18

Deadline to Apply for FEMA Assistance Today, But FEMA Remains in Louisiana

BATON ROUGE, La. – While the Nov. 29 deadline to submit an application for Hurricane Ida assistance is today, FEMA will remain in Louisiana to assist survivors. If you applied for assistance you can continue to upload documents and update information to your file.

FEMA urges survivors to stay informed, reach out, and keep their contact information up to date. Update any changed contact information as soon as possible to avoid any delays in your application.

If you applied with FEMA before Nov. 29 and later discover that your insurance did not cover all losses, you have up to a year to submit additional documentation to FEMA. It is important to provide FEMA with your final insurance settlement information, as assistance may be available for some expenses not covered by insurance.

Applicants should stay in touch with FEMA to ensure the disaster-assistance process stays on track. Missing or incorrect information could hold things up. Update your contact information and report additional damage or a delay in insurance payments by:

• Going online at DisasterAssistance.gov;
• Calling the FEMA Helpline 800-621-3362. Multilingual operators are available; or
• Downloading the FEMA app.

To receive a link to download the FEMA app:

• Apple devices: text APPLE to 43362
• Android devices: text ANDROID to 43362
• Visit fema.gov/about/news-multimedia/app

kwei.nwaogu Mon, 11/29/2021 - 15:42

FEMA Disaster Recovery Center at Norwich Fire Station Closes

HARTFORD, Conn. – The FEMA Disaster Recovery Center at the Norwich Fire Station has closed permanently. But FEMA specialists are still just a phone call or mouse click away.

The New London County DRC located at Norwich Fire Station, 10 N. Thames St., Norwich, CT. 07055 is closed permanently as of Nov 23, 2021.  

While this site has closed, face-to-face assistance is still available at Three Rivers Community College, 574 New London Turnpike (E Wing building, enter from north entrance), Norwich, CT 06360 until Nov. 30.

Survivors can also find their nearest DRC online at fema.gov/drc, or text DRC to 43362. Standard message and data rates apply.

Help is Still Available

Disaster survivors can still access disaster information and assistance the following ways: online at DisasterAssistance.gov; by calling 800-621-3362; (TTY:800-462-7585); or download the FEMA app available for smart phones. The toll-free telephone lines operate from 7 a.m. to 11 p.m. ET, seven days a week. If you use a relay service, such as video relay service (VRS), captioned telephone service or others, give FEMA the number for that service. Multilingual operators are available.

adrien.urbani Wed, 11/24/2021 - 20:37

Disaster Recovery Center in Golden Meadow to Close Permanently Today, Nov. 24

BATON ROUGE, La. – The Disaster Recovery Center located at the Geaux Pass Service Center in Golden Meadow will close at 5 p.m., today, Nov. 24 and will relocate to aid additional survivors in other locations affected by Hurricane Ida.

Residents of all parishes affected by Hurricane Ida can continue to visit a number of other centers open in Louisiana. To locate a center, check the FEMA app or visit www.FEMA.gov/DRC. All centers follow COVID-19 precautions. Masks are required for employees, volunteers and survivors. 

Survivors can meet face to face with FEMA specialists at the following center until it closes permanently today at 5 p.m.

DRC Closing Nov. 24 Geaux Pass Service Center

1821 S. Alex Plaisance Blvd.

Golden Meadow, LA 70057

kiarash.ghiam Wed, 11/24/2021 - 18:00

Disaster Recovery Centers Close for Holiday – Help is Still Available

HARTFORD, Conn – FEMA Disaster Recovery Centers will close temporarily for the Thanksgiving Holiday, but help is still just a click away.

The following DRCs will close at noon, Wednesday, Nov. 24 and reopen 8 a.m. Friday, Nov. 26:

• Glenville Fire Station, 266 Glenville Rd., Greenwich, CT 06831
• Norwalk Fire Department, 121 Connecticut Ave., Norwalk, CT 06854
• Norwich Fire Department, 10 North Thames St., Norwich, CT 06360
• Three Rivers Community College, 574 New London Tpke., Norwich, CT 06360

The DRC in Bridgeport will close at 6 p.m., Tuesday, Nov. 23 and reopen; 10 a.m., Saturday Nov. 27:

• Bridgeport Public Library, 925 Broad St., Bridgeport, CT 06604                    

Help is Still Available

Even on Thanksgiving, Connecticut survivors can still access disaster information and assistance the following ways: online at DisasterAssistance.gov; or download the FEMA app available for smart phones.

adrien.urbani Wed, 11/24/2021 - 14:19

FEMA Disaster Recovery Centers to Close for Thanksgiving Weekend

BATON ROUGE, La. – All FEMA Disaster Recovery Centers in Louisiana will close for the entire Thanksgiving holiday weekend, from Thursday, Nov. 25 through Sunday, Nov. 28. All centers will reopen at their regular hours Monday, Nov. 29.

Monday, Nov. 29 is also the last day for Hurricane Ida survivors to apply with FEMA. If possible, survivors should visit a recovery center before the holiday to apply or to follow-up on applications and request other services.

Individuals whose primary residence is in one of the 25 parishes designated for FEMA individual assistance may visit any disaster center to apply for assistance or obtain other help. Anyone needing a reasonable accommodation (ASL interpreting, Braille, Large print, etc.) may call 800-621-3362 to request assistance in advance or ask the recovery staff at the center for assistance.

To find a recovery center near you check the FEMA app or visit www.FEMA.gov/DRC. All centers follow COVID-19 precautions. Masks are required for all visitors, employees and volunteers. 

Individuals may also apply for federal assistance online at DisasterAssistance.gov, by phone at 800-621-3362 or (TTY) 800-462-7585 or on the FEMA app: select Disaster Resources and click on Apply for Assistance Online.

kiarash.ghiam Tue, 11/23/2021 - 22:07

FEMA Teams up with SBA at Disaster Loan Outreach Center at the New Orleans Public Library Main Branch

BATON ROUGE, La. – Although the FEMA Disaster Recovery Center at the Main Branch of the New Orleans Public Library has closed, FEMA specialists will be available at this location to help survivors. The former DRC is now a U.S. Small Business Administration Disaster Loan Outreach Center.

SBA specialists will help business owners and individuals apply for low-interest disaster loans and close approved disaster loans. SBA provides federal low-interest disaster loans up to $200,000 to homeowners to repair or replace damaged or destroyed real estate. Homeowners and renters are eligible for up to $40,000 to repair or replace damaged or destroyed personal property.

FEMA specialists will still help survivors check the status of their FEMA applications and scan and upload documents, as well as answer questions and provide information on additional recovery resources and on how to rebuild safer and stronger.

The Disaster Loan Outreach Center is located at:

New Orleans Public Library – Main Branch, first floor

219 Loyola Ave. New Orleans, LA 70112

The center will be open from 10:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., Wednesday, Nov. 24, and be closed Thursday and Friday, Nov. 25-26, for the Thanksgiving holiday. The center will re-open from 10:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., Saturday, Nov. 27.

 

Normal hours: 10:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m., Monday-Thursday; 10:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., Friday-Saturday. Closed Sunday.

Federal Covid-19 safety rules require all visitors and employees at federal facilities to wear masks, regardless of vaccination status.

The deadline to apply for FEMA assistance and an SBA loan is Nov. 29, 2021.

sandra.habib Tue, 11/23/2021 - 21:49

FEMA Approves $3.3 Million in Hazard Mitigation Grants for Bay and Jackson Counties

PENSACOLA, Fla. — FEMA has approved two hazard mitigation grants totaling more than $3.3 million to strengthen the resiliency of critical facilities in Bay and Jackson counties following Hurricane Michael.

Funding from FEMA’s Hazard Mitigation Grant Program (HMGP) will provide:

• Bay County: $1,953,899 for the installation of redundant fiber optic connections to ensure reliable communications for 93 critical facilities and programs – including 911 radio towers, law enforcement, fire stations and the government administration building – and 126 traffic signals throughout the county to enable efficient traffic flow during the evacuation and return of residents following any disaster. This project will also add fiber optic redundancy to many non-county facilities including Bay District Schools and the city fire and police departments of Lynn Haven, Panama City, Panama City Beach and Springfield.

• Jackson County: $1,347,363 to purchase and install permanent diesel generators at 17 critical facilities throughout the county. Installation will include a concrete pad and an automatic transfer switch at each location, which will ensure the continuous delivery of electrical power from either a power company or a generator during future power outages. The permanent generators will be protected from flooding and wind.

The HMGP is an important source of federal disaster assistance. Program funding may become available after the president declares a major disaster, with a goal of strengthening communities by improving buildings and critical infrastructure. A 2018 report by the National Institute of Building Sciences found that one dollar spent on hazard mitigation saves more than six dollars of recovery and rebuilding costs.

Generally, the HMGP may provide a state, tribe or territory with additional grants up to 15 percent of the total disaster grants awarded by FEMA for a federally declared disaster. States such as Florida that meet advanced mitigation planning criteria may qualify for a higher percentage.

Florida has a FEMA-approved Enhanced Mitigation Plan, making the state eligible for HMGP funding not to exceed 20 percent of the estimated total amount of grant money spent by FEMA in the Hurricane Michael disaster. From this amount, the HMGP reimburses the state up to 75 percent of eligible costs for hazard mitigation projects. The remaining amount comes from other sources such as state and local assets and a combination of cash and in-kind sources.

Kimberly.Kipp Tue, 11/23/2021 - 15:51

Plan Now for a Safe Thanksgiving Holiday

CHICAGO – With Thanksgiving fast approaching, make safety a priority while enjoying celebrations with family and friends.

“Take precautions when cooking and heating your home to reduce the risk of a house fire during the holidays,” said Moises Dugan, acting regional administrator, FEMA Region 5. “We also must remember COVID-19 is still a risk and stay vigilant against its spread. Take the time to check the CDC’s website for the latest guidance on safer ways to celebrate this season while protecting the ones you love.”

Keep in mind these additional tips to keep your holidays as healthy and safe as possible:

• Be a prepared traveler. If you are considering traveling for a holiday or event, visit the CDC’s Travel page to help you decide what is best for you and your family. The CDC still recommends delaying travel until you are fully vaccinated. Always wear a mask in public settings and wash your hands often. If you’re driving, ensure you have an emergency supply kit in your car, and if you’re packing for a flight or train ride, consider a small kit in case of emergency: flashlight, batteries, & a spare USB power bank.
• Protect against home fire risks. Thanksgiving is the peak day for home cooking fires. Before you celebrate, take the time to put working smoke and carbon monoxide (CO) alarms on every level of your home and inside and outside sleeping areas. Remember to change the batteries in these alarms twice per year or per manufacturer’s guidelines.
• Practice smart cooking. Cooking is the biggest cause of home fires and fire injuries. Stay in the kitchen when you are frying, grilling, broiling, or boiling food and turn pot handles toward the back of the stove so they won’t get bumped. Clean cooking equipment after each use—crumbs in a toaster or grease on the stove can catch on fire. Keep a large pan lid or baking sheet handy in case you need to smother a pan fire.
• Heat your home safely. Keep anything that can burn at least three feet away from fireplaces, wood stoves, portable heaters and radiators. When you leave a room or go to bed, turn heaters off or unplug them. Portable generators should NEVER be used indoors and should only be refueled outdoors and in well ventilated areas.

For more readiness tips, visit www.ready.gov, www.cdc.gov, www.usfa.fema.gov, or download FEMA’s free app, available for your Android, Apple or Blackberry device.

# # #

FEMA's mission is helping people before, during, and after disasters.

troy.christensen Mon, 11/22/2021 - 16:21

Hurricane Ida Assistance Still Available as Deadline Nears

BATON ROUGE, La. – Survivors of Hurricane Ida still have one week left to apply for assistance from FEMA. The final deadline to apply is Monday, Nov. 29.

FEMA assistance for individuals and families affected by Hurricane Ida can cover rental assistance, temporary housing, home repairs, personal property losses and other disaster-related needs not covered by insurance. The fastest way to apply for FEMA assistance is online at DisasterAssistance.gov or by phone at 800-621-3362 or (TTY) 800-462-7585. Phone lines operate from 6 a.m. to 10 p.m., seven days a week. Individuals can also visit a Disaster Recovery Center to apply and meet with FEMA specialists in person. To locate a center, check the FEMA app or visit fema.gov/DRCLocator.

Nov. 29 is also the final deadline to apply for a U.S. Small Business Administration disaster loan. SBA representatives are available at disaster recovery centers. Businesses and residents can also visit sba.gov/disaster-assistance, call SBA’s customer service center at 800-659-2955 (TTY) 800-877-8339, or email disastercustomerservice@sba.gov for information or to apply.

Anyone requiring a reasonable accommodation (ASL interpreting, Braille, Large print, etc.) may call 800-621-3362 to request assistance in advance or ask the recovery staff at the center for assistance. Applicants and staff in the recovery centers are required to follow CDC COVID-19 safety guidance.

sandra.habib Mon, 11/22/2021 - 15:16

FEMA Recovery Center Opens Saturday in Norwalk

Hartford, Conn.– A FEMA Disaster Recovery Center (DRC) in Norwalk (Fairfield County) will open at 10 a.m. Saturday, Nov. 20, to help Connecticut residents affected by the remnants of Hurricane Ida.  

Representatives from FEMA and the U.S. Small Business Administration are available at the center to help survivors apply for disaster assistance, explain disaster assistance programs, answer questions about FEMA letters and the appeals process and provide literature about repairs and rebuilding to make homes more disaster resistant.

The DRC is located at:

• Norwalk: Norwalk Fire Department, 121 Connecticut Ave., Norwalk, CT 06854

Hours for the Norwalk location are: 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. Monday through Friday; 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturday; and Closed Sunday

DRCs are accessible for individuals with disabilities and have on-site communication accessibility tools like amplified listening devices and Video Remote Interpreting. Additional accommodations can be made upon arrival. ASL interpreters and multilingual services will be available upon request.

Survivors are encouraged to file insurance claims for damage to their homes, personal property, businesses and vehicles before they apply for FEMA assistance. In addition to visiting a DRC, Connecticut residents can apply online at DisasterAssistance.gov; via the FEMA app; or by calling the Disaster Assistance helpline at 800-621-3362 (TTY: 800-462-7585). The toll-free telephone lines operate from 7 a.m. to 11 p.m. ET, seven days a week. If you use a relay service, such as video relay service (VRS), captioned telephone service or others, give FEMA the number for that service.

Applicants for disaster assistance should have the following information prior to registration: Social Security number; address of the damaged primary residence; insurance coverage information; current telephone number and mailing address; and bank account and routing numbers for direct deposit of funds.

To help alleviate the risk of COVID-19 being spread through person-to-person contact, wearing a mask or face covering is required to gain entry. Hand sanitizer is available to survivors and staff.

Workstations are spaced six feet apart to provide an extra level of protection for survivors and staff.

FEMA ensures that common areas are cleaned regularly, and workstations are sanitized after each visitor.

Individuals in Fairfield and New London Counties are eligible to apply for disaster assistance. FEMA is working with state officials to open further centers throughout declared counties.

Disaster assistance may include financial help for home repairs along with other programs to assist families recover from the effects of the event.

adrien.urbani Fri, 11/19/2021 - 20:33

Two Disaster Recovery Centers in New Orleans and Gonzales to Close Permanently Nov. 23

BATON ROUGE, La. – FEMA Disaster Recovery Centers at the New Orleans Public Library Main Branch (Orleans Parish) and the Gonzales Mental Health Center in Gonzales (Ascension Parish) will close permanently at the close of business, Tuesday, Nov. 23.

Residents of all parishes affected by Hurricane Ida can continue to visit a number of disaster recovery centers in Louisiana. All DRC centers follow COVID-19 precautions. Masks are required for all visitors, employees and volunteers.

Survivors can meet face to face with FEMA specialists at the following centers until they close permanently on Nov. 23:

Disaster Recovery Centers Closing Nov. 23 New Orleans Public Library Main Branch (first floor)

219 Loyola Ave.

New Orleans, LA 70112

Closing at 5:30 p.m.

Gonzales Mental Health Center

1112 E. Ascension Complex Blvd.

Gonzales, LA 70037

Closing at 6 p.m.

 

 

 

kwei.nwaogu Fri, 11/19/2021 - 15:37

FEMA Region 4 Announces New Youth Preparedness Council Members

ATLANTA – 11 new members are joining the FEMA Region 4 2021-2022 Youth Preparedness Council, a group of high schoolers interested in improving the preparedness and resilience of their communities.

Youth Council members were selected based on their community involvement, public service and potential to improve community resilience.

“Engaging youth in disaster preparedness empowers them to act as change makers in their community,” said FEMA Region 4 Administrator Gracia Szczech. “They can share the preparedness message with their families and peers, and bring creative, new ideas to their communities to help them prepare for emergencies and disasters.”

The Region 4 Youth Preparedness Council cultivates leadership and life skills through a platform for members to share ideas and help build stronger and more resilient communities.

Members of the FEMA Region 4 YPC represent seven Southeast states:

• Matthew Barfield of Florida
• Addie Brooks of Tennessee
• Peyton Granger of South Carolina
• Stella Lee of Florida
• Devika Manoj of Georgia
• Ja'Shaylee Minor of Mississippi
• Saachi Mody of Florida
• Ryan Mosley of Alabama
• Samuel Rios of Kentucky
• Isabella Tarsitano of Florida
• Taylor Worbington of Florida

The council is an avenue for FEMA to engage youth and hear their perspectives, feedback and opinions. Members will be mentored by agency staff, to complete a preparedness project.

To learn more about youth preparedness, visit www.ready.gov/youth-preparedness.

neily.chapman Thu, 11/18/2021 - 20:27

FEMA and KIRO-AM Seattle to Unveil New Emergency Broadcast Studio

Event Includes a Live Demonstration of the Upgraded Facility, Highlighting Broadcast Radio’s Critical Role in Nation’s Emergency Alert and Warning System

SEATTLE — Together, FEMA and Bonneville Seattle have completed an important modernization at the emergency radio broadcast facility at Bonneville International’s KIRO-AM 710 in Seattle. This modernization project improves emergency alert systems that provide critical alerts and warnings to the public.

The KIRO-AM facility serves as a Primary Entry Point (PEP) station for FEMA’s National Public Warning System (NPWS), maintained under FEMA’s Integrated Public Alert and Warning System (IPAWS), and provides critical information to the public before, during and after incidents and disasters.

Under the Integrated Public Alert and Warning System Modernization Act enacted in 2015, Congress required FEMA to upgrade PEP stations across the country to ensure continuity of terrestrial broadcast services under all hazards. PEP stations are specially designated NPWS broadcast stations that serve as the primary intake source of initial broadcasts for a national alert. FEMA equips these stations, which are operated by local station personnel, with backup communications equipment and power generators that enable them to continue broadcasting information to the public during and after an emergency, including conveying official alerts to communities regionally and nationwide. These free-standing emergency studios, located at the radio transmitter sites, are specially designed and hardened to withstand various natural disasters and acts of terrorism. This helps ensure that the President can alert and warn the public under all conditions. Currently, there are 77 PEP stations that are capable of reaching 90 percent of the U.S. population.

KIRO-AM is the 14th PEP station to complete the all-hazards upgrade. The modernization to the emergency studio includes increased sheltering capabilities, expanded broadcast capacity, and sustainable power generation for all types of hazardous events, increasing KIRO-AM’s resiliency to continue broadcasting during emergencies.

“It’s an honor for Bonneville Seattle to serve the community and we are proud to partner with FEMA. We share and salute the agency’s commitment to protecting the public,” said Darrell Brown, President, Bonneville International. “Radio is a lifeline, and the new studio and continued investment will ensure KIRO-AM 710’s resiliency during times of crisis when communication is vital.”

"For generations, the KIRO-AM signal has been designated by the federal government as the one to broadcast critical information in case of a major disaster," said Cathy Cangiano, Senior VP/Market Manager, Bonneville Seattle. "It's a responsibility we take seriously. We are committed to getting out lifesaving information when our region needs us."

If required, and in a national worst-case scenario, KIRO-AM would broadcast a message from the President or other national authorities within 10 minutes. Via FEMA’s Emergency Alert System, other radio stations in the Seattle area would begin re-broadcasting the information coming from KIRO and its news staff. Local authorities, such as the King County Office of Emergency Management, may also disseminate life-saving information by way of the new facilities installed at the KIRO tower site.

FEMA, KIRO and King County are partners in distributing life-saving emergency information to the public.

FEMA and Bonneville Seattle will hold an event on Friday, November 19, 2021, (11 a.m. to 1 p.m. PT) to unveil the upgraded KIRO-AM transmitter and PEP Site (22805 Dockton Road SW, Vashon, WA 98070.) The news conference will include FEMA and local officials, as well as a live demonstration from KIRO-AM 710 on-air hosts.

Speakers include:

• Antwane Johnson, Director, Integrated Public Alert and Warning System, FEMA
• Manny Centeno, IPAWS Program Manager, FEMA
• Brendan McCluskey, Director, King County Office of Emergency Management
• Jason Shirron, Technical Operations Coordinator, King County OEM
• Vince Maykovich, Acting Regional Administrator, FEMA Region 10
• Cathy Cangiano, VP/Market Manager, Bonneville Seattle
• Jason Ornellas, Regional Director of Engineering, Bonneville International West Region
• Dave Ross, On-Air Host, KIRO Radio 97.3 FM

For more information about IPAWS or the PEP modernization effort, go to FEMA’s website at https://www.fema.gov/emergency-managers/practitioners/integrated-public-alert-warning- system/broadcasters-wireless. To learn more about Bonneville Seattle and KIRO-AM 710 Seattle, visit https://bonneville.com/our-markets/seattle/.

For more information on attending the news conference, please RSVP and direct any questions to Jenette Warne at (206) 726-7000 jwarne@bonneville.com or the FEMA Region 10 News Desk at

(425) 487-4610, FEMA-R10-NewsDesk@fema.dhs.gov.

###

About FEMA:

FEMA’s mission is helping people before, during and after disasters. Follow FEMA Region 10 on Twitter and LinkedIn for the latest updates and visit FEMA.gov for more information. FEMA does not endorse any non-government websites, companies or applications.

About Bonneville:

Bonneville Seattle owns and operates KIRO-AM (710 ESPN Seattle), KIRO Radio 97.3 FM, AM 770 KTTH and is part of Bonneville International. Bonneville International is an integrated media and marketing solutions company dedicated to building up, connecting, informing, and celebrating families and communities.

mary.j.edmon Thu, 11/18/2021 - 19:25

What’s Holding up Your Disaster Assistance? Call the FEMA Helpline and Find Out

BATON ROUGE, La. – If you applied with FEMA and have questions about your recovery process, immediate help is available.

Simply call FEMA’s Disaster Helpline at 800-621-3362 (TTY 800-462-7585) to find out the status of your application, what additional assistance may be available or to have other questions answered. Multilingual operators are available to take your call. The lines are open daily from 6 a.m. to 10 p.m.

If you haven’t heard back from FEMA since applying, a number of common problems may have delayed the application process. For example, thousands of applications from Louisiana survivors have been held up because of missing documents. Provide the needed paperwork, and the application can begin to move forward. Just call the Helpline to find out how.

Reasons to call the Helpline:

• To get help with setting up an online account at DisasterAssistance.gov
• To get help with uploading documents. A Helpline operator can walk you through the process: Go to DisasterAssistance.gov and login to your online account.
  • Upload the document through the Upload Center tab at the top of the page after selecting the type of document you are submitting (appeal, verification document, etc.). Select “Upload Now” to submit the documentation or for multiple documents, select “Add Another File.” 
• You received a letter from FEMA, but no decision was given. Read the letter carefully; if you don’t understand what FEMA wants you to do, call the Helpline to find out why no decision has been made. Often you will need to provide more documentation. Call the Helpline to find out how to handle FEMA’s requests for more information.
• You received a letter and were denied assistance but don’t know why. Call the Helpline to find out why you were denied assistance and for help with appealing FEMA’s decision.
• FEMA may already have called you. FEMA staff review all applications and call survivors to verify information. These calls may come from an unlisted number. By not answering calls from an unlisted number, applicants may miss an opportunity for FEMA to assist them. When you answer an unlisted number and the caller says they are from FEMA, request a FEMA identification number from the caller. If you are unsure of the caller’s identification, or you are suspicious of someone claiming to be from FEMA, call the FEMA Helpline at 800-621-3362 (TTY 800-462-7585). The same applies if you have been waiting for a home inspection call. The inspector may call from an unlisted number, and you may miss the call.
• Your circumstances have changed, and you need to update your application. For a change of address, a new phone number, updated banking information or other changes, call the Helpline.
• To update your insurance information. If you have received your insurance settlement and haven’t told FEMA yet, or it doesn’t cover your needs, call the Helpline to update your application.
• If you want more information about the recovery process, how to rebuild to make your home stronger or other recovery resources, call the Helpline. The operators can share information about additional support available from FEMA and its partners.

kiarash.ghiam Thu, 11/18/2021 - 19:01