News - femacontract.com

Be Safe: Use Care When Returning To Flooded Areas

ATLANTA – Use caution when returning to flood-damaged homes or businesses. Structural damage can make a building unsafe; electricity and gas can pose a threat, and snakes, insects and other animals take up residence when flood water recedes.

The Mississippi Emergency Management Agency and the Federal Emergency Management Agency recommend a careful and organized approach when returning.

Some suggestions are:

Turn off electricity
Before beginning to work, turn off the electricity. Unplug appliances and lamps, remove light bulbs and remove the cover plates of wall switches and outlets that got wet.

Get standing water out
Use a pump, mop, squeegee or wet/dry vacuum cleaner to remove standing water from all buildings as soon as possible.

Hose it out
Shovel as much mud as possible out of the building, and then hose it out. Use an attachment that sprays soap to wash and rinse muddy walls, floors, furniture and other major items.

When in doubt, throw it out
Floodwater and mud may be contaminated with chemicals as varied as garden chemicals, a neighbor’s septic tank and cleaning products. Wallboard, mattresses, and carpeting will hold mud and contamination forever. Spoiled food, soaked cosmetics and medicine are health hazards. Get rid of them.

Clean safely

Flood damage causes dampness where mold, mildew and other organisms thrive. Mold may cause respiratory problems, so it is important to use proper procedures when cleaning. Use a combination of household bleach and soap or detergent to wash down walls, floors and other mold-contaminated areas.

Personal cleanliness

Wash your hands and other parts of the body that may come into contact with floodwater with soap and clean water or with hand sanitizer.

Other tips

Do not go near downed power lines. Call the utility company if you find downed power lines or suspect a gas leak.
Turn off the electricity at the main fuse box or circuit breaker and turn off natural gas.
Look for cracks in the foundation, and sagging roofs.
If you have doubts about the safety of a building, contact a qualified inspector or structural engineer before going inside.
Check floors and ceilings for signs of sagging. Rain or flooding can soak plaster, drywall and flooring making it slippery with the potential to collapse.
Because they emit deadly carbon monoxide, do not use generators or other gasoline-powered machines indoors and use only camp stoves and charcoal grills outside for cooking.
Drain the basement no more than one foot per day to minimize further damage.
Floodwater promotes the growth of mold and mildew. Open windows and doors, and turn on fans to help dry out interiors.
Walls, floors, closets, shelves, contents and personal items touched by flood water, should be thoroughly washed and disinfected.
Unplug appliances and let them dry out. Have them checked by a professional before using
them again.
Check with local power company before turning the power on.
Check with local authorities before using water; it could be contaminated. Pump out wells and have the water tested by experts before drinking.
Do not flush toilets until you know that sewage lines are intact.
Take pictures of damages. Keep good records of all repair and cleaning costs.
Watch out for broken bottles, nails and other hazards. Before beginning clean-up, get a
tetanus shot.

To learn more about safely cleaning up: http://www.msema.org/documents/moldandmildew9-1.pdf

Learn what to do with displaced wildlife: http://www.msema.org/documents/wildlife9-1.pdf

###

FEMA’s mission is to support our citizens and first responders to ensure that as a nation we work together to build, sustain, and improve our capability to prepare for, protect against, respond to, recover from, and mitigate all hazards.

Disaster recovery assistance is available without regard to race, color, religion, nationality, sex, age, disability, English proficiency or economic status. If you or someone you know has been discriminated against, call FEMA toll-free at 800-621-FEMA (3362). For TTY call 800-462-7585.

Link:

Be Safe: Use Care When Returning To Flooded Areas

Register For Federal Disaster Assistance Even If You Have Insurance

ATLANTA—Hurricane Isaac survivors in Mississippi who had property losses in Hancock, Harrison, Jackson or Pearl River counties should register for federal disaster assistance even if they have insurance.

Insured survivors should register as soon as they can with the Federal Emergency Management Agency for several reasons.

Federal disaster assistance may be provided prior to a delayed insurance settlement and assist an eligible survivor during their recovery. However, federal assistance must be repaid once an insurance settlement is received.

An insurance settlement may be insufficient to cover all eligible damages or losses. Federal disaster assistance may fill in eligible gaps a survivor’s insurance doesn’t cover.

Survivors who have flood insurance on their property should be aware that it covers the following:

The structure and its foundation
Electrical and plumbing
Central air conditioning equipment, furnaces and water heaters,
Refrigerators, cooking stoves and built-in appliances such as dishwashers
Permanently installed carpeting over unfinished flooring
Permanently installed paneling, wallboard, bookcases and cabinets
Window blinds
Detached garages
Debris removal
Some personal items, such as clothing, furniture, window units, microwave ovens and dishwashers, washers and dryers and food freezers

Federal disaster assistance may include temporary housing assistance if a residence is uninhabitable and its coverage does not include additional living expenses.

Assistance for insured survivors may come in the form of grants or low-interest disaster loans from the U.S. Small Business Administration.

Survivors can register by going to www.DisasterAssistance.gov or by calling 800-621-FEMA (3362). They also can apply through their smartphones or tablets by going to m.fema.gov.

Disaster applicants who use TTY should call 800-462-7585. Those who use 711 or Video Relay Service (VRS) should call 800-621-3362.

FEMA’s temporary housing assistance and grants for public transportation expenses, medical and dental expenses, and funeral and burial expenses do not require individuals to apply for an SBA loan. However, applicants who receive SBA loan applications must submit them to SBA loan officers to be eligible for assistance that covers personal property, vehicle repair or replacement, and moving and storage expenses.

###

Taken from:

Disaster Recovery Centers Open In Five Locations

ATLANTA – Disaster recovery centers are open today in Gulfport, Pascagoula, Picayune, Poplarville and Waveland to help those with storm losses caused by Hurricane Isaac.

Center hours are 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. every day until further notice.

The center locations are:

Hancock County
Hancock County Resource Center
454 Hwy 90
Waveland, MS 39576

Jackson County
Jackson County Fairgrounds
4761 Vega St.
Pascagoula, MS 39567

Harrison County
County Farm Road Community Shelter
15035 County Farm Rd.
Gulfport, MS 39503

Pearl River County
Mississippi National Guard Armory
1251B Hwy 11 South
Picayune, MS 39466

Pearl River County
Baker Maid Building
403 South Main St.
Poplarville, MS 39470

Representatives of the Mississippi Emergency Management Agency, the Federal Emergency Management Agency and the U.S. Small Business Administration will be at the centers to explain assistance programs and help survivors apply for disaster aid.

Before going to a disaster recovery center, people with storm losses are encouraged to register with FEMA.

Survivors can register online at www.DisasterAssistance.gov or via smartphone by going to FEMA’s mobile site at m.fema.gov. Applicants may also call 800-621-3362 or (TTY)
800-462-7585. If you use 711-Relay or Video Relay Services call 1-800-621-3362. The toll-free telephone numbers will operate from 7 a.m. to 10 p.m. seven days a week until further notice.

Federal disaster assistance can include grants for rental assistance and home repairs, low-interest loans from the U.S. Small Business Administration to cover uninsured property losses, and other programs to help recover from the effects of the disaster.

###

Originally posted here:

Disaster Recovery Centers Open In Five Locations

Disaster Recovery Center Opens In Pascagoula

ATLANTA – A disaster recovery center is open in Jackson County to help those with storm losses caused by Hurricane Isaac.

Center hours are 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. every day until further notice.

The center is located behind the Jackson County Fairgrounds at:

4761 Vega St.

Pascagoula, MS 39567

Representatives of the Federal Emergency Management Agency and the U.S. Small Business Administration will be at the centers to explain assistance programs and help survivors apply for
disaster aid.

A mobile disaster recovery center also has been set up at the Hancock County Resource Center,
454 Hwy 90 in Waveland. Two additional centers are operating today at temporary locations in Harrison and Pearl River counties.

Before going to a disaster recovery center, people with storm losses are encouraged to register with FEMA.

Survivors can register online at www.DisasterAssistance.gov or via smartphone at m.fema.gov. Applicants may also call 1-800-621-3362 or (TTY) 1-800-462-7585. If you use 711-Relay or Video Relay Services call 1-800-621-3362. The toll-free telephone numbers will operate from 7 a.m. to 10 p.m. seven days a week until further notice.

Visit link:

Disaster Recovery Center Opens In Pascagoula

In the Aftermath of Hurricane Isaac, the Support of Volunteers is Key

National Voluntary Organizations Active in Disaster actively involved in disaster response

WASHINGTON – In the wake of Hurricane Isaac, voluntary agencies continue to be a vital member of the disaster response and recovery team, working alongside state and local emergency responders to help to address immediate needs of survivors. The public can play an important role with the emergency management team, volunteering their time, money, and energy to help disaster survivors and their families. There are ways individuals can support the ongoing response and recovery efforts, whether they live in one of the affected areas or across the country.

The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) is advising people who want to help survivors affected by Hurricane Isaac to do so through affiliation with the voluntary organizations that are active in the ongoing disaster operations.

“When disasters occur, local and national voluntary agencies are often among some of the first responders on the ground to help survivors with the support and resources that they need,” said FEMA Administrator Craig Fugate. “In Isaac, we’ve already seen field kitchens opening in the hardest hit neighborhoods with thousands of meals being served; dozens of shelters available for temporary housing relief; and teams on the ground to assist with debris removal and temporary roofs.”

National Voluntary Organizations Active in Disaster (National VOAD) serves as the primary point of contact for voluntary organization coordination in FEMA’s National Response Coordination Center, supporting Emergency Support Function 6 (Mass Care, Emergency Assistance, Housing, and Human Services). National VOAD continues to work with a network of more than 50 national agencies and 55 state and territorial VOADs providing countless volunteers and services to support response and recovery efforts.

National VOAD members including voluntary, non-profit and faith-based organizations are working closely with the state and communities to assist with providing mobile feeding in areas where there are power outages, assist with debris removal and, as needed, to support with temporary roofing for disaster survivors.

Examples of ongoing work include:

The American Red Cross has opened shelters in several Gulf Coast states and has been mobilizing trained disaster workers across the region. Sunday night about 660 people stayed in 18 Red Cross or community shelters in Louisiana and Mississippi and thousands of Red Cross disaster workers are lending a hand. Almost 200 emergency response vehicles are traveling through affected neighborhoods, distributing hot meals and relief supplies. More than 193,000 meals and snacks have already been served.
With a large response effort spanning multiple states, the Red Cross is working closely with government agencies and community organizations to coordinate this multi-state relief response. Partners like AmeriCorps, Islamic Relief USA, NAACP and the National Baptist Convention USA are assisting to provide help and comfort. In addition, a number of companies such as Spectrum Brands, Walgreens, Coca-Cola, Home Depot and Vision Services, have contributed items such as insect repellent, bottled water and snacks.
Salvation Army teams in Florida, Mississippi, Alabama, and Louisiana have distributed over 34,419 meals, 41,977 drinks, 26,275 snacks, 364 comfort kits, operated 25 mobile feeding units, 1 fixed feeding kitchen, provided emotional and spiritual care to 890 individuals, and have put in 7,377 hours of service.
Habitat for Humanity International reported local Habitats are checking on homes and conducting assessments in their communities and is engaged in dialog with Louisiana and Mississippi VOAD and local governments on clean-up efforts.
NECHAMA, a Jewish non-profit social service organization, has partnered with All Hands Volunteers along the coast to coordinate spontaneous unaffiliated volunteers to assist with debris removal and muck-outs.
United Way is standing up Volunteer Reception Centers to intake the unaffiliated volunteers from other states and tie them in with established organizations performing response and recovery operations.
Team Rubicon, an organization which unites the skills and experiences of military veterans with emergency responders, has provided teams of volunteers to assist local authorities with road openings, debris removal, and logistics coordination.
Islamic Circle of North America had opened Masjid shelters and hosts located in Baton Rouge, LA; Lafayette, LA; Jackson, MS; and Beaumont, TX; with a total population of over 60 individuals. These shelters provided gender-segregated sleeping space, catered food to meet the dietary needs, congregational prayer space, and common knowledge of practicing Muslims, and vouchers for local hotel accommodations.

Louisiana

Louisiana Voluntary Organizations Active in Disaster (LA VOAD) continues to work with the mass feeding team to support the delivery of hot meals to Point of Distribution Sites (PODS). Operation Blessing, Southern Baptist Men, Convoy of Hope and many others are supporting the State’s effort.
As of September 1, 2012 Adventist Community Services mobile unit has served 1198 of clothing kits (which include socks, underwear, pants, and t-shirts), care kits, and blankets at the Jewella Shelter in Shreveport, LA.

Mississippi

Mississippi Southern Baptists (MSB) has two field kitchens supporting mobile feeding along the coast and has served in excess of 4,500 meals and snacks. Feeding is expected to continue through the end of this week. MSB also is assisting residents with chain saw and debris removal teams and is also assisting with a temporary roofing team applying plastic sheeting. Living Word Baptist Church has been assisting with muck outs and debris removal.
Presbyterian Disaster Assistance and Camp Victor are providing volunteer housing for groups coming in to assist in response and recovery activities.

The activities of the voluntary agencies are far reaching and anyone interested in providing assistance to Isaac survivors may visit the National VOAD website at www.nvoad.org to learn more. Individuals’ support during this time goes a far way to helping these communities recover, and according to the National VOAD, there are several ways to help disaster survivors. They include:

Donation of Cash – A financial contribution to a recognized disaster relief organization is the most effective donation to make. When the public supports these voluntary organizations with financial contributions, it helps ensure a steady flow of important services to the people in need after a disaster.
Volunteering – Volunteer with a recognized organization involved in disaster response and recovery. While newly recruited volunteers may not complete training in time to assist with the Isaac response, they will be prepared to help with the next disaster event.
Donation of Goods – Before taking action, confirm what is needed and donate in-kind goods that are specifically requested or needed by recognized organizations. Receiving and managing unsolicited donated goods often redirects voluntary agencies’ valuable resources away from the services required to meet the needs of disaster survivors.

In addition, the Louisiana Service Commission has established a web portal at www.volunteerlouisiana.gov to help with coordinating donations and volunteers. The Mississippi Commission for Volunteer Service has established a web portal at www.mcvs.org for volunteer opportunities and donation information. Cash is the preferred method of donation in order to ensure that disaster survivors get the services and supplies they need quickly.

Just as the federal government works closely with 50 plus National VOAD members, as well as many other voluntary, community, and faith-based organizations, each state also has its own organizes State Voluntary Organizations Active in Disaster. For information on VOADs in affected states, please visit the following: Alabama; Florida; Mississippi; Louisiana.

(NOTE: this on-line version of the press release reflects an updated quote from Administrator Fugate.)

Original link:

In the Aftermath of Hurricane Isaac, the Support of Volunteers is Key

Disaster Survivors In Mississippi Should Register With Fema

ATLANTA —Disaster survivors in Hancock, Harrison, Jackson and Pearl River counties affected by Hurricane Isaac should apply now for federal assistance.

Registration is available online at www.DisasterAssistance.gov or by phone at 800-621-FEMA (3362). Operators speak many languages. Disaster applicants who use TTY should call 800-462-7585. Those who use 711 or Video Relay Service (VRS) should call 800-621-3362.

FEMA’s individual assistance program helps eligible applicants with temporary housing assistance, uninsured personal property losses and medical, dental and funeral expenses caused by the disaster, along with other disaster-related expenses and serious needs. Low-interest disaster loans from the U.S. Small Business Administration are available to cover residential and business losses not covered by insurance.

Homeowners and renters may qualify for Individual Assistance through the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA). However, they must apply for assistance. The process takes 15 to 30 minutes.

The toll-free FEMA registration numbers are available seven days a week from 7 a.m. to 10 p.m. local time.

Survivors also can apply for federal assistance directly through Web-enabled mobile phone devices or smartphones. Registration through the mobile site takes three steps:

Go to m.fema.gov and click “Apply Online for FEMA Assistance.” You will be directed to www.DisasterAssistance.gov
Click on Start Registration
Fill out the registration form

FEMA will ask for the following information:

The telephone number where applicants can be reached
The address where applicants lived at the time of the disaster and the address where they are staying
Their Social Security number
A general description of damage to property and other losses
The name of the insurance company and policy number or agent if the property is insured
Bank account routing information for direct deposit of funds.

People whose property suffered any storm damage are encouraged to document damages with photographs and to save repair receipts. Damage also should be reported to the insurance company.

Federal funding is also available on a cost-sharing basis for hazard mitigation measures for all of Mississippi.

###

Link:

Disaster Survivors In Mississippi Should Register With Fema

Mississippi Major Disaster Declaration Amended to Include Individual Assistance

WASHINGTON – Today, FEMA announced an amendment to the major disaster declaration for the State of Mississippi to include the Individual Assistance Program.

Federal funding is now available to affected individuals in for Hancock, Harrison, Jackson, and Pearl River counties. Assistance can include grants for temporary housing and home repairs, and uninsured property losses, and other programs to help individuals and households recover from the effects of the disaster.

Individuals and households who sustained losses in the designated counties can begin applying for assistance by registering online at http://www.disasterassistance.gov, or by web enabled mobile device at m.fema.gov. Those without access to the internet may call FEMA’s toll-free number at 1-800-621-FEMA(3362) or 1-800-462-7585 (TTY) for the hearing and speech impaired. The toll-free telephone numbers will operate from 7 a.m. to 10 p.m. (local time) seven days a week until further notice.

For more information, visit: http://www.fema.gov/public-assistance-local-state-tribal-and-non-profit/recovery-directorate/assistance-individuals-and.

Federal Coordinating Officer Terry L. Quarles said additional designations may be made at a later date if requested by the state and warranted by the results of further damage assessments.

On Thursday, the President declared a major disaster declaration for the State of Mississippi for emergency work and hazard mitigation.

Follow FEMA online at blog.fema.gov, www.twitter.com/fema, www.facebook.com/fema, and www.youtube.com/fema. Also, follow Administrator Craig Fugate’s activities at www.twitter.com/craigatfema. The social media links provided are for reference only. FEMA does not endorse any non-government websites, companies or applications.

Link to article –

Mississippi Major Disaster Declaration Amended to Include Individual Assistance

FEMA and Federal Partners Continue to Support Response and Recovery Efforts in the Gulf Coast

WASHINGTON – At the direction of President Barack Obama, the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) continues to coordinate the federal government’s efforts to support state, local, tribal, private sector, and faith-based and non-profit partners, as the Gulf Coast states respond and recover in the wake of Isaac.

FEMA and Federal partners remain on the ground in communities affected by Hurricane Isaac. More than 1350 FEMA staff are on the ground in Louisiana and Mississippi, including 200 Community Relations staff who are assessing needs within the community and providing situational awareness to the state and local governments. Incident Management Assistance teams are also on the ground in Mississippi and Louisiana to support state and local needs. Mobile Emergency Response Teams also are in Louisiana and Mississippi to support state emergency communications requirements including voice, video and information services.

“As the floodwaters begin to recede, I urge disaster survivors not to return home until local officials give the all clear. There may be hazards that prevent you from being able to return home such as downed power lines. Roads and bridges may still be impassable,” said FEMA Administrator Craig Fugate. “The Federal team continues to work side by side with local authorities to assist governors of impacted states as areas are stabilized.”

The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) has more than 200 personnel deployed in the Gulf supporting Isaac response, including two 50-person Disaster Medical Assistance Teams and a U.S. Public Health Service team with 67 commissioned corps officers. Two Federal Medical Stations began receiving patients yesterday in Louisiana. The Federal Medical Station in New Orleans has 18 patients; the Federal Medical Station in Baton Rouge has a dozen patients and is expecting additional patients today as state officials move patients from a state-run shelter to the Federal Medical Station. The U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs also is providing personnel and liaisons to support staffing of the Federal Medical Stations (FMSs).

HHS also provided staff and medical supplies to assist in moving patients in Louisiana using more than 100 ambulances and 300 paratransit seats available through FEMA’s ambulance contract. Ambulances have responded to almost 100 calls and transported 85 people to emergency rooms. Approximately 370 people have been transported using paratransit.

The U.S. Department of Energy reports that energy restoration efforts are underway in Mississippi and Louisiana, and according to area utility providers a workforce of more than 15,000 electricity workers from over 24 states continue to assess the damage and conduct energy restoration efforts. Some localities already have power restored.

Joint federal, state and local disaster assessments are underway in Florida. Louisiana and Mississippi disaster assessments are being scheduled as areas become accessible. These assessments identify the damages in impacted counties and parishes to help the governors determine if additional federal support will be requested.

On Wednesday, President Obama signed major disaster declarations for the states of Louisiana and Mississippi, making federal aid available to supplement state and local response efforts for emergency protective measures and debris removal in the areas affected by Hurricane Isaac beginning on August 26, 2012. These declarations build upon emergency declarations issued for both states earlier this week. Statewide hazard mitigation is available to all counties and tribal governments in Mississippi, and to all parishes and tribal governments in Louisiana.

Yesterday, the Louisiana major disaster declaration was amended to include Individual Assistance for Jefferson, Plaquemines, St. Bernard, St. John the Baptist, and St. Tammany parishes. Today, Ascension, Lafourche, Livingston and Orleans parishes are included in this disaster declaration. Individuals and business owners households who sustained losses in the designated county can apply for assistance by registering online at www.disasterassistance.gov, by web enabled mobile device at m.fema.gov. If you do not have access to the internet, you can call 1-800-621-FEMA (3362). Survivors, who have a speech disability or hearing loss and use TTY, should call 1-800-462-7585 directly; for those who use 711 or Video Relay Service (VRS), call 1-800-621-3362. The toll-free telephone numbers are open from 7 a.m. to 10 p.m. (local time) seven days a week until further notice.

Disaster Recovery Centers are open, today, in Plaquemines and St. Tammany parishes. Specialists from the state of Louisiana, the FEMA and the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) will be on hand to answer questions and provide information on the types of assistance available to survivors.

In support of Louisiana, FEMA recently transferred more than 1.4 million liters of water, 1.3 million meals, and 28,800 tarps to the State of Louisiana for the state to distribute to individuals at Points of Distribution (POD) sites. The state, in coordination with local governments, identifies the location of these PODs which are currently operating across a number of parishes. Individuals should contact their local emergency management for more information.

As the remnants of the storm continues to move further inland , FEMA’s regional offices in Denton, Texas, Chicago, Ill., and Kansas City, Mo. are monitoring conditions, and remain in close coordination with potentially affected states. An Incident Management Assistance Team and a Mobile Emergency Response Support Team from a previous disaster are on the ground in Ohio and can support response efforts for the approaching storm, if needed.

Below is an updated timeline of some of the key activities and events that have occurred over the last 48 hours:

Saturday, September 1, 2012

Department of Homeland Security Secretary Janet Napolitano joined FEMA Administrator Craig Fugate on a video-teleconference call today to discuss the latest developments with the National Weather Service, partner agencies and regional representatives to assess their needs and readiness. The conference had the participation of emergency management leadership from the affected states including Alabama, Mississippi and Louisiana.
FEMA Region VI Administrator Tony Robinson and Federal Recovery Coordinating Officer Wayne Rickart deployed to Louisiana where they will meet with federal coordinating officer Gerard M. Stolar and state and local officials to moving forward with recovery plans, resources and assets in affected areas, weather permitting.
FEMA Federal Coordinating Officers remain on the ground in Mississippi and Louisiana, working closely with state and local officials to provide the full resources of the federal government to support response efforts to protect lives and property.
Major Disaster Declaration for state of Louisiana was amended to provide Individual Assistance Program to residents in the parishes of Ascension, Lafourche, Livingston and Orleans. Residents in the designated parishes of Ascension, Jefferson, Lafourche, Livingston, Orleans, Plaquemines, St. Bernard, St. John the Baptist, and St. Tammany parishes should call FEMA to register for disaster assistance.
The state of Louisiana continues to operate points of distribution to provide residents with much needed supplies. FEMA dispatched trucks containing more than 1.4 million liters water, and 1.3 million meals to the state. The PODs are managed by the Louisiana National Guard.
Disaster recovery centers are opened in Louisiana in Plaquemines Parish and St. Tammany Parish. Specialists from the state of Louisiana, FEMA and the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) were on hand to answer questions and provide information on the types of assistance available to survivors.
Joint federal, state and local disaster assessments are underway in Florida and Louisiana. These assessments identify the damages in impacted counties and parishes to help the governors determine if additional federal support will be requested.
In Louisiana, FEMA and the U.S. Small Business Administration participated in joint federal, state and local PDA’s in five parishes for Individual Assistance (Assumption, Jefferson, La Fourche, Plaquemines, Terrebonne) and 4 parishes for Public Assistance (Assumption, Morehouse, Orleans and Saint Tammany). Plaquemines parish has completed their Individual Assistance PDA.
Department of Energy (DOE) reported that energy restoration efforts are underway in Mississippi and Louisiana, and according to area utility providers a workforce of more than 15,000 electricity workers from over 24 states continue to assess the damage and conduct energy restoration efforts. Some localities already have power restored.
The National Guard has been providing essential lifesaving services and assisting in the clean up and debris removal in Louisiana and Mississippi. More than 5,700 National Guard Soldiers and Airmen in Louisiana, Mississippi, Alabama and Florida are on State Active Duty, with more than 33,600 additional Guardsmen available to support relief operations.
The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) has more than 200 personnel deployed in the Gulf supporting the Tropical Storm Isaac response, including two 50-person Disaster Medical Assistance Teams and a U.S. Public Health Service team with 67 commissioned corps officers. Two Federal Medical Stations set up by began receiving patients yesterday in Louisiana. The Federal Medical Station in New Orleans has 18 patients; the Federal Medical Station in Baton Rouge has a dozen patients and is expecting additional patients today as state officials move patients from a state-run shelter to the Federal Medical Station. The U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs also is providing personnel and liaisons to support staffing of the Federal Medical Stations (FMSs).
HHS also provided staff and medical supplies to assist in moving patients in Louisiana using more than 100 ambulances and 300 paratransit seats available through FEMA’s ambulance contract. Ambulances have responded to almost 100 calls and transported 85 people to emergency rooms. Approximately 370 people have been transported using paratransit.
The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (USACE) has been closely working with the states of Louisiana and Mississippi. Teams are on the ground providing technical assistance, such as hydraulic modeling and finding available portable pumps, to reduce flooding along the Tangipahoa River and in Plaquemines Parish in Louisiana. USACE also deployed emergency power teams to Mississippi and Louisiana, and commodities, debris and temporary roofing teams are deployed to Louisiana.
U.S. Coast Guard continued to work with the maritime industry to respond to a number of ship groundings and barge strandings along the riverbank caused by the river surge and high winds of the storm. Additionally, Coast Guard hazardous materials response teams are surveying the area to identify any hazardous materials released during the hurricane. The Coast Guard Captain of the Port of New Orleans lifted all restrictions to vessel traffic on the Lower Mississippi River from Baton Rouge to the Gulf of Mexico after assessments and transits by smaller ships indicated that the channel is safe for all types of vessels.

Friday, August 31, 2012

Department of Homeland Security Secretary Janet Napolitano joined FEMA Administrator Craig Fugate on a video-teleconference call today to discuss the latest developments with the National Weather Service, partner agencies and regional representatives to assess their needs and readiness. The conference had the participation of emergency management leadership from the affected states including Florida, Alabama, Mississippi, Louisiana, and Texas.
FEMA Federal Coordinating Officers remain on the ground in Mississippi and Louisiana, working closely with state and local officials to provide the full resources of the federal government to support response efforts to protect lives and property.
FEMA and the U.S. Small Business Administration participated in joint federal, state and local preliminary damage assessments are on the ground in Palm Beach and Indian River counties in Florida. These assessments identify the damages in impacted counties to help the governor determine if additional federal support will be requested.
FEMA transferred to the state of Louisiana more than 500,000 liters of water, 390,000 meals, 50,000 blankets, 30,000 cots and 3,500 tarps for distribution. The Louisiana National Guard opened Points of Distribution (POD) sites, to provide food, water, and supplies to those affected by Isaac. These locations are determined by the state and local governments.
National Tribal Assistance Coordination Group (TAC-G) hosted a conference call with to discuss Isaac’s impact, receive updates from Tribes, share initial reports from TAC-G partners regarding Isaac and future planning. The coordination group counts with the participation of Department of Interior/Bureau of Indian Affairs, Department of Health and Human Services Office of Indian Health Service, Department of Homeland Security, National Congress for American Indians and United Southern and Eastern Tribes.
U.S. Postal Service offices were open and mail delivery returned today to New Orleans, Baton Rouge, Lafayette and surrounding postal facilities where Isaac’s torrential rains, severe winds and flooding had forced offices to close. Today’s mail consisted of Social Security checks, medicine and mail that could not be delivered on Tuesday. Posts Offices are open and mail delivery has resumed throughout Mississippi. Customers with questions or concerns about their mail should call 1-800-ASK-USPS (1-800-275-8777).
The U.S. Coast Guard, Army Corps of Engineers, River Pilot Associations and port authorities surveyed the Mississippi River and surrounding waterways in an aggressive effort to identify navigational hazards. Although the Mississippi River was heavily impacted by the storm, the navigational channel is in good condition. The Coast Guard is working with the maritime industry to respond to a number of ship groundings and barge standings’ along the riverbank caused by the river surge and high winds of the storm.
U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (USACE) continues to support the states of Alabama, Mississippi and Louisiana Emergency Operation Centers and FEMA Regions IV and VI Regional Response Coordination Centers. USACE is operating the Greater New Orleans District Hurricane and Storm Damage Risk Reduction System (HSDRRS) and has begun opening up major structures as the storm surge slowly subsides. Major structures will continue to be opened until all required openings are completed. In Mississippi, USACE is assisting Mississippi state officials with a controlled release at the non-federal dam on the Tangipahoa Lake in Percy Quin State Park in order to relieve pressure on the dam. The Vicksburg District Corps of Engineers created inundation mapping and provided the pumps to assist in relieving pressure on the dam.
More than 4,100 National Guard forces in Alabama, Mississippi, Florida and Louisiana are on State Active Duty prepared to respond to Isaac.
FEMA and the U.S. Small Business Administration staff joined state and local officials on joint preliminary damage assessments (PDA) in Florida. These assessments identify the damages in impacted counties and to help the governor determine if additional federal support will be requested.
FEMA’s regional offices in Denton, Texas, Chicago, Ill., and Kansas City, Mo. continue to monitor Tropical Depression Isaac, and remain in close coordination with potentially affected states. Regional Incident Management Assistance teams and other staff are on standby. There is also an Incident Management Assistance Team and Mobile Emergency Response Support team, on the ground in Ohio, from a previous disaster that can support response operations from storm, if needed.
U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) has agreed to lend 1 million barrels of sweet crude oil from the Strategic Petroleum Reserve’s (SPR) Bayou Choctaw site in Louisiana to Marathon Petroleum Company to address the short term impact on the company’s refining capacity caused by Hurricane Isaac. The loan will be provided under short-term contractual agreements and Marathon Petroleum Company will return an equal amount of similar quality oil to the Reserve within three months, plus premium barrels, which is similar to interest.
The American Society for Prevention of Cruelty of Animals (ASPCA) is working with the Louisiana State Animal Response Team to plan and complete animal rescues. As part of this effort, ASPCA is deploying responders to conduct door-to-door rescue of animals in flooded or abandoned homes, assisting a Louisiana animal shelter facing flooding, and supplying boats and other equipment for critical water rescue missions. More information is available at. www.aspca.org

More information about the full federal response and activities is available at yesterday’s blog post recap.

Link –

FEMA and Federal Partners Continue to Support Response and Recovery Efforts in the Gulf Coast

FEMA Kicks Off Ninth Annual National Preparedness Month

WASHINGTON – As the remnants of Hurricane Isaac continue to impact portions of the country, FEMA kicked off the ninth annual National Preparedness Month, which occurs every September.

On Friday, August 31, 2012, President Obama signed a proclamation designating September as National Preparedness Month. The effort is led by FEMA’s Ready Campaign in partnership with Citizen Corps and The Ad Council. The campaign is a nationwide effort encouraging individuals, families, businesses and communities to work together and take action to prepare for emergencies. Only 60 percent of Americans say preparation for natural or man-made disasters is very important to them, yet only a staggering 17 percent of Americans claim to be very prepared for an emergency situation.

“This year’s wildfires, the derecho, and Hurricane Isaac are all important reminders that disasters can happen anytime and anywhere,” said FEMA Administrator Craig Fugate. “By taking steps now to prepare for emergencies, we ensure that our families and communities are prepared to respond and recover from all types of disasters and hazards. Together, our efforts will build a stronger and more resilient nation.”

Readiness is a shared responsibility, and FEMA asks all Americans to make the pledge to prepare this month and truly help themselves, their neighbors and their communities be Ready. People can get started by visiting www.Ready.gov/today and download a family emergency plan, emergency kit checklists, and get information on how to get involved locally. Be informed about the types of emergencies that can happen in your area, and the appropriate way to respond.

National Preparedness Month is supported by a coalition of public, private and non-profit organizations that help spread the preparedness message. Last year, FEMA had a record number of 8,952 coalition members. This year, FEMA expects to have another record-breaking number of coalition members. By hosting events, promoting volunteer programs and sharing emergency preparedness information, coalition members can help ensure that their communities are prepared for emergencies. To become an NPM Coalition Member and find readiness events that may be taking place near you, visit: http://community.fema.gov.

During National Preparedness Month, and throughout the year, FEMA and the Ad Council to prepare in advance for all types of natural disasters. The Ready Campaign’s websites (ready.gov and listo.gov) and toll-free numbers (1-800-BE-READY and 1-888-SE-LISTO) provide free emergency preparedness information and resources available in English and Spanish.

Follow FEMA online at http://blog.fema.gov, www.twitter.com/fema, www.facebook.com/fema, and www.youtube.com/fema. Also, follow FEMA Administrator Craig Fugate’s activities at www.twitter.com/craigatfema. The social media links provided are for reference only. FEMA does not endorse any non-government websites, companies or applications.

FEMA and Federal Partners Continue to Support Life Saving and Life Sustaining Efforts

Earlier today, the President held a call with a number of Parish Presidents, Mayors, and County Leaders from Louisiana and Mississippi let them know that they and their communities were in his thoughts and prayers and make clear that he had directed FEMA to continue to make all resources available. The President plans to visit Louisiana on Monday to meet with local officials and view ongoing response and recovery efforts to Hurricane Isaac, and Secretary of the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) Janet Napolitano will travel to Mississippi and Louisiana on Sunday, Sept. 2.

FEMA Administrator Craig Fugate was on the ground in Louisiana and met with U.S. Senator Mary Landrieu and Plaquemines Parish President Billy Nungesser today to discuss FEMA’s efforts to support response and recovery in Louisiana following Hurricane Isaac. Administrator Fugate then traveled to the Mississippi Gulf Coast to meet with Mississippi Emergency Management Agency Director Robert Latham and other state and local officials and see firsthand the impact and the response efforts.

“I have witnessed outstanding response efforts being undertaken by state and local emergency managers and first responders. The leadership demonstrated during the Hurricane Isaac response can be attributed to the years of training, planning, and commitment to preparedness by the whole community,” said FEMA Administrator Craig Fugate. “There are still many areas where the threat of flooding continues and I urge individuals to continue to monitor conditions and follow the direction of local officials.”

As Isaac continues inland and rivers continue to rise in some areas, FEMA urges individuals in affected areas, and areas expected to be affected, to monitor their NOAA Weather Radios and their local news for severe weather updates and warnings throughout the Labor Day weekend. Always follow the instructions of state, local, and tribal officials, especially urgent evacuations orders and flash flood warnings.

Joint federal, state and local disaster assessments are underway in Florida and are scheduled to begin, safety permitting, in Louisiana and Mississippi. Plans are being made for assessments in other areas, as they become accessible. These assessments identify the damages in impacted counties to help the governor determine if additional federal support will be requested.

In support of Louisiana, FEMA recently transferred more than 500,000 liters of water, 390,000 meals, 50,000 blankets, 30,000 cots and 3,500 tarps to the State of Louisiana for the state to distribute to individuals at Points of Distribution (POD) sites. The state, in coordination with local governments, identifies the location of these PODs which are currently operating across a number of parishes. Individuals should contact their local emergency management for more information.

Today, FEMA announced an amendment to the major disaster declaration for the State of Louisiana to include the Individual Assistance Program. Federal funding is available to affected individuals in Jefferson, Plaquemines, St. Bernard, St. John the Baptist, and St. Tammany parishes. Assistance can include grants for temporary housing and home repairs, low-cost loans to cover and uninsured property losses, and other programs to help individuals and business owners households recover from the effects of the disaster.

Individuals and business owners households who sustained losses in the designated parishes can begin applying for assistance tomorrow by registering online at http://www.disasterassistance.gov, or by web enabled mobile device at m.fema.gov. If you do not have access to the internet, you can call 1-800-621-FEMA(3362). Survivors who have a speech disability or hearing loss and use TTY, should call 1-800-462-7585 directly; for those who use 711 or Video Relay Service (VRS), call 1-800-621-3362. The toll-free telephone numbers will operate, starting tomorrow, from 7 a.m. to 10 p.m. (local time) seven days a week until further notice.

The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (USACE) has been closely working with the states of Louisiana and Mississippi. Teams are on the ground providing technical assistance, such as hydraulic modeling and finding available portable pumps, to reduce flooding along the Tangipahoa River and in Plaquemines Parish in Louisiana. USACE also deployed emergency power teams to Mississippi and Louisiana, and commodities, debris and temporary roofing teams are deployed to Louisiana.

The U.S. Department of Health and Human Service (HHS) has two Disaster Medical Assistance Teams, an Incident Response Coordination Team, and equipment on scene in Baton Rouge and New Orleans. The U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs is providing personnel and liaisons to support staffing of the Federal Medical Stations (FMSs). Two FMS caches have arrived in New Orleans and Baton Rouge.

A 24/7 Disaster Distress Helpline was activated by the HHS Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration as a resource to people seeking crisis counseling after experiencing a natural or manmade disaster or tragedy. The residents of the Gulf States can call 1-800-985-5990 for assistance.

Incident Management Assistance Teams are in state emergency operations centers in Mississippi and Louisiana as well as supporting state and local needs in Plaquemines Parish, La. Mobile Emergency Response Teams also are deployed to Louisiana and Mississippi to support state emergency communications requirements including voice, video and information services.

While Isaac has been downgraded to a tropical depression, it still poses an ongoing threat for some areas. According to NOAA’s National Weather Service, a flood risk continues for low-lying areas in communities in northern Louisiana, northern Mississippi, and the states of Arkansas, Missouri, Illinois, and Indiana during the next five days. Flash flood watches and warnings are currently in effect for portions of Arkansas and northern Louisiana. The National Weather Service is the official source for weather information.

As the storm continues to move further inland, FEMA’s regional offices in Denton, Texas, Chicago, Ill., and Kansas City, Mo. are monitoring Tropical Depression Isaac, and remain in close coordination with potentially affected states. An Incident Management Assistance Team and a Mobile Emergency Response Support Team from a previous disaster are on the ground in Ohio and can support response efforts for the approaching storm, if needed.

Below is a timeline of some of the key activities and events that have occurred since Tropical Depression Isaac first threatened Puerto Rico and the U.S. Virgin Islands on its path to the Gulf of Mexico:

Friday, August 31, 2012

Department of Homeland Security Secretary Janet Napolitano joined FEMA Administrator Craig Fugate on a video-teleconference call today to discuss the latest developments with the National Weather Service, partner agencies and regional representatives to assess their needs and readiness. The conference had the participation of emergency management leadership from the affected states including Florida, Alabama, Mississippi, Louisiana, and Texas.
FEMA Federal Coordinating Officers remain on the ground in Mississippi and Louisiana, working closely with state and local officials to provide the full resources of the federal government to support response efforts to protect lives and property.
FEMA and the U.S. Small Business Administration participated in joint federal, state and local preliminary damage assessments are on the ground in Palm Beach and Indian River counties in Florida. These assessments identify the damages in impacted counties to help the governor determine if additional federal support will be requested.
FEMA transferred to the state of Louisiana more than 500,000 liters of water, 390,000 meals, 50,000 blankets, 30,000 cots and 3,500 tarps for distribution. The Louisiana National Guard opened Points of Distribution (POD) sites, to provide food, water, and supplies to those affected by Isaac. These locations are determined by the state and local governments.
National Tribal Assistance Coordination Group (TAC-G) hosted a conference call with to discuss Isaac’s impact, receive updates from Tribes, share initial reports from TAC-G partners regarding Isaac and future planning. The coordination group counts with the participation of Department of Interior/Bureau of Indian Affairs, Department of Health and Human Services Office of Indian Health Service, Department of Homeland Security, National Congress for American Indians and United Southern and Eastern Tribes.
U.S. Postal Service offices were open and mail delivery returned today to New Orleans, Baton Rouge, Lafayette and surrounding postal facilities where Isaac’s torrential rains, severe winds and flooding had forced offices to close. Today’s mail consisted of Social Security checks, medicine and mail that could not be delivered on Tuesday. Posts Offices are open and mail delivery has resumed throughout Mississippi. Customers with questions or concerns about their mail should call 1-800-ASK-USPS (1-800-275-8777).
The U.S. Coast Guard, Army Corps of Engineers, River Pilot Associations and port authorities surveyed the Mississippi River and surrounding waterways in an aggressive effort to identify navigational hazards. Although the Mississippi River was heavily impacted by the storm, the navigational channel is in good condition. The Coast Guard is working with the maritime industry to respond to a number of ship groundings and barge standings’ along the riverbank caused by the river surge and high winds of the storm.
U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (USACE) continues to support the states of Alabama, Mississippi and Louisiana Emergency Operation Centers and FEMA Regions IV and VI Regional Response Coordination Centers. USACE is operating the Greater New Orleans District Hurricane and Storm Damage Risk Reduction System (HSDRRS) and has begun opening up major structures as the storm surge slowly subsides. Major structures will continue to be opened until all required openings are completed. In Mississippi, USACE is assisting Mississippi state officials with a controlled release at the non-federal dam on the Tangipahoa Lake in Percy Quin State Park in order to relieve pressure on the dam. The Vicksburg District Corps of Engineers created inundation mapping and provided the pumps to assist in relieving pressure on the dam.
More than 4,100 National Guard forces in Alabama, Mississippi, Florida and Louisiana are on State Active Duty prepared to respond to Isaac.
FEMA and the U.S. Small Business Administration staff joined state and local officials on joint preliminary damage assessments (PDA) in Florida. These assessments identify the damages in impacted counties and to help the governor determine if additional federal support will be requested.
FEMA’s regional offices in Denton, Texas, Chicago, Ill., and Kansas City, Mo. continue to monitor Tropical Depression Isaac, and remain in close coordination with potentially affected states. Regional Incident Management Assistance teams and other staff are on standby. There is also an Incident Management Assistance Team and Mobile Emergency Response Support team, on the ground in Ohio, from a previous disaster that can support response operations from storm, if needed.
U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) has agreed to lend 1 million barrels of sweet crude oil from the Strategic Petroleum Reserve’s (SPR) Bayou Choctaw site in Louisiana to Marathon Petroleum Company to address the short term impact on the company’s refining capacity caused by Hurricane Isaac. The loan will be provided under short-term contractual agreements and Marathon Petroleum Company will return an equal amount of similar quality oil to the Reserve within three months, plus premium barrels, which is similar to interest.
The American Society for Prevention of Cruelty of Animals (ASPCA) is working with the Louisiana State Animal Response Team to plan and complete animal rescues. As part of this effort, ASPCA is deploying responders to conduct door-to-door rescue of animals in flooded or abandoned homes, assisting a Louisiana animal shelter facing flooding, and supplying boats and other equipment for critical water rescue missions. More information is available at. www.aspca.org

Thursday, August 30, 2012

Department of Homeland Security Secretary Janet Napolitano joined FEMA Deputy Administrator Rich Serino on a video-teleconference call to discuss the latest developments with the National Weather Service, partner agencies and regional representatives to assess their needs and readiness. The conference had the participation of emergency management leadership from the affected states including Florida, Alabama, Mississippi, Louisiana, and Texas.
FEMA Federal Coordinating Officers remain on the ground in Mississippi and Louisiana, working closely with state and local officials to provide the full resources of the federal government to support response efforts to protect lives and property.
A National Incident Management Assistance Team deployed to support state efforts in Plaquemines Parish. This is the second IMAT team on the ground in Louisiana.
FEMA deployed teams to join the U.S. Small Business Administration, and state and local preliminary damage assessments (PDA) scheduled to begin tomorrow in Palm Beach County, Florida. These assessments identify the damages in impacted counties and to help the governor determine if additional federal support will be requested.
FEMA’s regional offices in Denton, Texas, Chicago, Ill., and Kansas City, Mo. continue to monitor Tropical Depression Isaac, and remain in close coordination with potentially affected states. Regional Incident Management Assistance teams from Regions V and VII, and other staff are on standby. There is also an Incident Management Assistance Team and Mobile Emergency Response Support team, on the ground in Ohio, from a previous disaster that can support response operations from storm, if needed.
Texas Task Force 1, a federal urban search and rescue task force with the National Urban Search and Rescue System, and an Incident Support Team remain in Louisiana.
The U.S. Coast Guard is rapidly assessing impacts to the maritime transportation system impacts in order to restore flow of commerce through the ports and the Mississippi river. Seven helicopters and one fixed wing maritime patrol aircraft are conducting search and rescue operations, port assessments and off shore patrols in the Gulf of Mexico. USCG was responding to a variety of stranded persons in all of the parishes affected by the storm. 17 people and 2 pets have been rescued. The Captain of the Port of New Orleans has worked closely with the port authorities, the pilots and industry to safely clear a variety of grounded vessels and barges in the confines of the Mississippi river ensuring rapid recovery to the flow of commerce.
FEMA, in coordination with U.S. Northern Command pre-staged in Fort Rucker, AL four UH-60 Blackhawk helicopters from Fort Campbell, KY and two SH-60 Seahawk helicopters from Norfolk Naval Air Station, VA, to assist in search and rescue efforts. A Search and Rescue planner has also been activated and deployed to the Baton Rouge Emergency Operations Center. There are four Emergency Planners Liaison Officers deployed to the National Response Coordination Center in support of FEMA and Fort Polk, LA has been designated as a Federal Team Staging Area. The command activated Region VI Defense Coordinating Officer (DCO), and Defense Coordinating Element (DCE) to Baton Rouge, LA, to validate, plan and coordinate potential DOD support of FEMA’s hurricane response operations and to facilitate DOD’s support of potential life-saving and response operations.
U.S. Northern Command deployed their Southwest Navy Regional Mass Communications team to the Naval Air Station Joint Reserve Base in New Orleans, LA.
The Department of Energy (DOE) is the designated Federal Sector-Specific agency directing Emergency Support Function12 (ESF-12) activities for the Energy Sector under the National Response Framework. DOE and local area utility companies are gathering a workforce of more than 12,000 electricity workers from over 24 states to assess the situation and begin energy restoration efforts once the storm passes.
U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (USACE) continues to support the states of Alabama, Mississippi and Louisiana Emergency Operation Centers and FEMA Regions IV and VI Regional Response Coordination Centers to organize response efforts, deployed Emergency Power Teams to Alabama, Mississippi and Louisiana. USACE’s commodities, debris, and temporary roofing teams are in Louisiana and others are placed on alert status to support Florida, Alabama, and Mississippi. USACE teams are working with the State of Louisiana and Plaquemines Parish to assist in the flood fight of locally owned levees experiencing overtopping from Isaac. Teams on the ground are providing technical assistance, such as hydraulic modeling and finding available portable pumps, to reduce flooding.
More than 4,100 National Guard forces in Alabama, Mississippi, Florida and Louisiana are on State Active Duty prepared to respond to Hurricane Isaac.
U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) deployed two Federal Medical Stations to Baton Rouge and New Orleans, La., to serve as medical special needs shelters for residents. To provide medical care for sheltering residents, HHS deployed five commissioned corps officers from the U.S. Public Health Service and two 50-person Disaster Medical Assistance Teams from the National Disaster Medical System. HHS also is providing additional staff and a cache of medical supplies to assist the evacuating patients in Louisiana and there are more than 100 ambulances and more than 300 paratransit seats in Baton Rouge to move patients.

More information about the full federal response and activities is available at yesterday’s blog post recap.

Credit:

FEMA and Federal Partners Continue to Support Life Saving and Life Sustaining Efforts

Page 350 of 386 « First ... « 348 349 350 351 352 » ... Last »