Resources

Debris removal is a critical and often intensive task following a natural disaster. It includes cleaning up and removing trees, wreckage from buildings and infrastructure, and dealing with mud, dirt and boulders. Localities with a debris management plan in place can make this difficult task easier and help ensure reimbursement funding.

Following a presidential disaster declaration, FEMA provides funding through its Public Assistance (PA) program. State and local governments can use this funding to repair, replace or restore infrastructure damaged in the disaster. The PA program may also provide funding for upgrades that bring infrastructure up to codes or for hazard mitigation measures that help prevent damage… Read more

Following a natural disaster, FEMA’s Individual Assistance (IA) program provides funding for temporary housing assistance for individuals whose homes have been made unsafe or inaccessible as a result of the disaster. Localities should be prepared to help guide individuals through the IA process, which requires individuals to register with FEMA directly and meet specific requirements.

To help states and local communities identify and mitigate flooding hazards, FEMA provides flood hazard mapping that assesses local flood risks. Flood hazard mapping is an important component of the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP), which offers affordable flood insurance to homeowners in participating communities.

In order to receive FEMA funds for debris removal, emergency measures and infrastructure restoration, localities must work with a FEMA Public Assistance Coordinator (PAC) crew leader and the assigned State Public Assistance representative to determine that the work meets program eligibility criteria. Under the Stafford Act, FEMA allows states and communities to request reimbursement for… Read more

As a community transitions from post-disaster response into recovery administration, the focus shifts to administering your program. City and county administrators and emergency management officials should engage with stakeholders in reviewing and enacting the recovery plan to help the community restore everyday activities and resume normal operations. Click on the topics below to learn more for… Read more

During the post-disaster response phase, localities focus on the community’s immediate needs, such as debris removal and temporary shelters, and applying for FEMA and other funding options. Click on the topics below to learn more for your community. Debris Removal Infrastructure Restoration Temporary Housing FEMA Mapping FEMA Funding Disbursement

In the response phase, localities focus on life-saving operations. Coordinated communications with staff, vendors, volunteers and the general public are crucial to this phase. Click on the topics below to learn more for your community. Rescue Effort Emergency Medical Initial Damage Assessment Temporary Infrastructure General Public Communications Shelters Stakeholder Communications

[This Field Isn’t Used On This Page]