Homeowner appeals during the recovery process are inevitable and time-consuming, they should be a last resort for applicants. IBTS has processed close to 2,500 homes for programs receiving funding from the the HUD’s Community Development Block Grant Disaster Recovery (CDBG-DR) program, and been able to mitigate nearly all homeowner appeals — saving the locality and the applicant valuable… Read more
Without a comprehensive debris management plan, the debris removal process can escalate into one of the most difficult and expensive response tasks after a natural disaster. To reduce costs and accelerate the process, FEMA introduced debris removal alternative procedures. Yet despite cost benefits and incentives for quicker debris removal, few localities have taken advantage… Read more
The following FEMA online independent study courses introduce the fundamental framework of federal disaster response. In addition, specialized courses focusing on the and National Response Framework (NRF) from the perspective of specific roles are listed below: IS-2900 — National Disaster Recovery Framework (NDRF) Overview IS-100.b — Introduction to Incident Command System, ICS-100 IS-700.a — National Incident Management… Read more
The Federal Highway Administration provides basic information and a wide range of resources to inform localities and states on the administration’s Emergency Relief Program. States must apply to the Federal Highway Administration, not FEMA, for funding to supplement state and federal assistance to repair damage to federal highways or roads on federal land caused by natural disasters.… Read more
If properly managed and engaged, local elected officials can be a great asset to disaster response and recovery operations. Below, Ken Parker, retired city manager of Port Orange, Florida, provides advice for localities on how best to engage elected officials and use their strengths to boost morale across the community. “Don’t be afraid to use… Read more
Although EMS professional’s day-to-day activities will cross-over into disaster response, they will likely experience heightened emotional and physical stress that comes with disaster response. City managers, emergency managers, local charitable organizations and nonprofits, and other relevant community stakeholders should work with EMS managers and supervisors during disaster planning and response to provide stress relief… Read more
Urban localities areas face unique challenges challenges when it comes to communications; they must manage a high volume of messaging and public input across a broad scope of communications channels before, during and after disasters. IBTS spoke with Vito Turso, New York City Department of Sanitation (DSNY) deputy commissioner, about his department’s experience communicating with… Read more
Cell, internet and landline service are not a given in the aftermath of a natural disaster, and unprepared communities can be thrown into disarray if communications are cut off even for a brief period. Amateur radio operator organizations and operators exist in nearly every community across the country; have a plan in place to… Read more
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
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
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