Resources

A Guide to Recycling Disaster Debris

  This guide provides an overview as well as best practices and tips for managing disaster debris recycling. It is intended as an introduction for local government leaders and department staff who are either new to or not fully comfortable with FEMA disaster debris recycling guidelines, however the tips and best practices described can also provide new insight for those who… Read more

FEMA Training Courses: Temporary Housing

There is no one-sized-fits-all approach for providing temporary housing to displaced residents after a natural disaster, yet FEMA training can provide an understanding of the basic concepts and elements of developing a temporary housing plan. FEMA offers three online independent study courses related to and Emergency Support Function #6, which both include the responsibility for… Read more

FEMA Training Courses: Emergency Management Services

Coordinating FEMA mapping and geospatial capabilities with other parts of the disaster response and recovery teams are important to a smooth recovery. The following courses provide an overview of these concepts, particularly identifying points of collaboration, technical capabilities, sources of authoritative data, and best practices. They are best suited for emergency managers, incident commanders and… Read more

Long-Term Recovery Planning: What Localities Need to Know

  Although localities typically have sound plans in place to meet immediate post-disaster recovery needs, many overlook long-term recovery needs — how will your community survive and thrive five, ten, twenty years after a disaster? These tips provide insight into what localities should consider while developing a basic long-term recovery plan and strategy. Engage a… Read more

Long-Term Recovery Planning: What Emergency Managers Need to Know

  Although emergency managers typically have sound plans in place to meet immediate post-disaster recovery needs, many overlook long-term recovery needs — how will your community survive and thrive five, ten, twenty years after a disaster? These tips provide insight into what emergency managers should take into account while developing a basic long-term recovery plan… Read more

FEMA Training Courses: Temporary Infrastructure

Providing temporary infrastructure to citizens is not only critical for a successful disaster response, but it builds morale and demonstrates a first step towards recovery. FEMA currently offers twelve online independent study courses focused on key elements of temporary infrastructure – transportation, energy, public works and health care.   IS-552 — The Public Works Role… Read more

FEMA Training Courses: Utility Companies

When a disaster strikes, it’s important for utilities to have a plan in place which allows them to maintain infrastructure resilience. The following FEMA courses provide information on establishing partnerships and plans that will be critical to recovery. These courses are appropriate for those with critical infrastructure duties, including personnel involved with the provision of… Read more

FEMA Training Courses: Initial Damage Assessments

FEMA currently offers two online independent study courses focused specifically on the initial damage assessment. In addition, an understanding of the Public Assistance and Individual Assistance programs ensures that the damage assessment collects the correct information.   IS-556 — Damage Assessment for Public Works IS-559 — Local Damage Assessment IS-403 — Introduction to Individual Assistance… Read more

FEMA Training Courses: Initial Rescue Effort

To ensure a coordinated, immediate disaster rescue effort, it’s important all stakeholders — including government leaders at the local, state and federal levels — are trained and up-to-date on emerging best practices. FEMA currently offers two online independent study courses focused on initial rescue efforts. IS-806 Emergency Support Function (ESF) #6 – Mass Care, Emergency… Read more

Tips: Have a Debris Removal Public Communications Plan

A communication plan is an important but often overlooked element of a community’s debris management plan. Localities can use these tips to expedite the debris removal process by sending quick and effective messages to the public. Identify and develop alternative outreach channels. Normal channels of communication may be unavailable at the time you need to… Read more