Understanding on a large scale how the many agencies that are part of disaster management protocol function is an important part of the staffing evaluation process. The following courses provide a basic overview of coordination systems at local, state and federal levels of government. These courses are suitable for senior officials, emergency managers, first responders… Read more
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
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
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
Staffing plans should clearly outline roles and responsibilities and be reviewed periodically to ensure every member of the disaster response team knows what they should be doing, where they should be and when they need to be there. FEMA currently offers several online independent study course that provide valuable guidance related to staffing guidelines during… Read more
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
Claire Ruben, researcher, consultant and educator in the fields of emergency management and homeland security, shares her observations and suggestions for long-term recovery planning improvement based on her 30-years of research and experience in the field. Her account provides reflections on multiple long-term recovery case studies and makes recommendations for improvement to practitioners and researchers… Read more
The state of Rhode Island provided municipalities in the state with a handbook outlining the basic eligibility requirements and processes of the CDBG-DR application process. Other states administerting CDBG-DR funds can use this as an example to develop a similar handbook specific to their state and municipality’s needs. CDBG-DR Application Handbook
This guide outlines the financial management requirements for CDBG-DR grantees. It includes instructions and checklists for completing each step of the grant allocation process to ensure grantees meet all compliance requirements. Guide for Review of Financial Management for CDBG-DR Grantees
This presentation on ‘s program outlines the basic process for conducting a needs assessment, developing a required “action plan” to address unmet recovery needs through eligible activities, and implementation of the action plan. It goes into detail about the different types of funding distribution options, in addition to reassessing needs and making “non-substantial” and “substantial” action plan… Read more