Each CDBG-DR appropriation is authorized through a Public Law (PL) and the associated Federal Register (FR) Notice. Together, these detail the rules and regulations that govern the use of funds as well as any waivers to the CDBG rules. The following tips provide guidance to help grantees ensure they have a thorough understanding of… Read more
As one of the most vulnerable populations in disaster response and recovery, a community’s homeless population cannot be overlooked in disaster planning. June Gin, Veterans Emergency Evaluation Center (VEMEC) Research Health Scientist, recommends that stakeholders involved in the disaster planning process coordinate and collaborate with homeless service organizations during planning. If your community doesn’t have… Read more
The International City/County Management Association’s (ICMA’s) Elizabeth Kellar provides insight into the challenges and the importance of thinking long-term in the immediate aftermath of a disaster. From updating building code to implementing home buyout programs, Kellar cites examples of measures that communities have taken after disasters to successfully build back stronger and more resilient to… Read more
As part of disaster planning, every community should have multiple shelter locations identified and assessed. These tips provide a starting point for communities to plan and prepare for getting fully-stocked, staffed and organized shelters in place quickly after a disaster. Pre-stock shelters with enough supplies. To avoid chaos, supplies like water, non-perishable food, chairs,… Read more
FEMA’s Commonly Used Sheltering Items & Services Listing (CUSI-SL) catalog provides a list of commonly used supplies in disaster shelters, in addition to an associated catalog number, description and suggested quantity. The catalog number and description are used when requesting supplies to help ensure the correct items are ordered and delivered to the shelter. Although intended… Read more
Trained staff are essential to making it through the initial 72-hour push after a disaster, when localities often have to go it alone. They also help ensure that the proper resources are attained in the weeks and months after a disaster and that the community is fully reimbursed for disaster recovery expenses. “The best work… Read more
Moving or disposing of debris improperly can disqualify communities and individuals from being eligible for FEMA reimbursement. Any stakeholder who may assist in debris removal efforts should take FEMA’s online independent study course devoted to debris management. IS-632.a — Introduction to Debris Operations
FEMA’s Community Recovery Management Toolkit offers guidance, case studies, tools and training to help jurisdictions navigate the often overlooked long-term disaster recovery planning process. The guide includes sections focused on organization, recovery planning and managing recovery, and also provides resources to assist core capability functions, such as housing, infrastructure and health and human services. … Read more
This FEMA guide outlines six planning steps and associated key activities to assist local governments in developing a comprehensive disaster response and recovery plan. Establishing clear roles and responsibilities and building relationships across community and regional leaders, organizations and individuals before a disaster can help your community become more resilient and recover faster from disasters.… Read more
State emergency management agencies (EMAs), regional FEMA offices and surrounding jurisdictions can serve as useful resources to supplement your locality’s disaster training needs before a disaster, and immediately after a disaster strikes if need be. These tips provide guidance to ensure localities take full advantage of regional training opportunities. Find out if your state… Read more
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