2014 National Preparedness Report Now Available
FEMA has released the 2014 National Preparedness Report (NPR). The NPR is an annual status report on the nation's progress toward reaching the National Preparedness Goal of a secure and resilient nation established in the Presidential Policy Directive 8: National Preparedness .
The NPR identifies areas of sustainment and progress made across 31 core capabilities towards building a secure and resilient nation while identifying opportunities for improvement. Key overarching findings from the 2014 NPR include:
- Embracing a new approach to disaster recovery: Major events, such as Hurricane Sandy and the severe 2012-2013 drought, have served as catalysts for change in national preparedness programs, drawing clearer links between post-disaster recovery and pre-disaster mitigation activities.
- Launching major national initiatives : The Federal Government has initiated several national-level policy and planning initiatives that bring unity of effort to preparedness areas, including critical infrastructure security and resilience, cybersecurity, recovery capabilities, and climate change.
- Managing resource uncertainties : Budget uncertainties have created preparedness challenges at state and local levels of government, resulting in increased ingenuity, emphasis on preparedness innovations, and whole community engagement.
- Partnering with tribal nations : Tribal partners are now more systematically integrated into preparedness activities. However, opportunities remain for Federal agencies and tribal nations to increase engagement and expand training opportunities on relevant policies.
For a copy of the full report go to: www.fema.gov/national-preparedness-report .
As this NPR indicates, as a nation we can continue to become better prepared. One way to do this is by registering for the America's PrepareAthon! campaign and participating on September 30—National PrepareAthon! Day. Learn more about America's PrepareAthon! at www.ready.gov/prepare .
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Faithful Readiness
Houses of worship and faith-based organizations are a key part of the emergency management team. FEMA invites you to join our webinar next Tuesday from 3:00 – 4:00 p.m. (EDT ) to learn more about how emergency managers are engaging with the faith community on a state and local level. This webinar is intended to inspire ideas for your communities outreach and engagement efforts as we move closer toward National Preparedness Month/National Prepareathon! Day.We will also be joined by two Centers from the White House Office of Faith-based & Neighborhood Partnerships.
Date/Time
- August 19, 2014
3:00 p.m. Eastern Daylight Time (EDT)/12:00 p.m. Pacific Daylight Time
Join the Webinar
Presenters
- Georgia Emergency Management Agency
- County of Los Angeles Office of Emergency Management
- Miami-Dade Fire Rescue Department's Office of Emergency Management
- Small Business Administration Center for Faith-based & Community Initiatives
- Department of Homeland Security Center for Faith-based & Neighborhood Partnerships
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Don't go Dry this Summer
Last week, we talked about how to conserve water outdoors since many communities are experiencing droughts , especially on the West Coast. It is critical that everyone also be mindful of indoor water maintenance and conservation . Did you know the average household's leaks can account for more than 10,000 gallons of water wasted every year? Droughts affect everyone from farmers to those of us just trying to take a shower. Even small efforts, like being mindful of whether or not your faucet is completely off ( dripping faucets alone lose 2,700 gallons of water a year !) make a huge difference.
There are many things you can do to improve your conservation, from purchasing water-saving technologies to how you do your laundry. Test your knowledge and check out these effective conservation strategies:
- Choose energy and water-efficient appliances;
- Check all plumbing for leaks;
- Avoid letting the water run while you shave or brush your teeth;
- Only use your dishwasher when it is full and on the “light wash” setting to use less water;
- Avoid using running water to thaw frozen meats and foods; and
- Wash your clothes only when you have a full load.
By practicing these tips every day and making them part of your routine, you will save money and preserve this essential resource during drought season.
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Extra Caution for Coastal Communities
There are approximately 13,000 miles of coastline in the United States. These areas are often vulnerable and prone to hazards like hurricanes, tsunamis, flooding and storm-surges. To protect you and your family, it's best to be prepared for those hazards before they occur. The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration emphasizes the importance of coastal communities:
- Developing a family disaster plan;
- Planning and practicing evacuation routes; and
- Talking to Insurance Agent about flood insurance and the National Flood Insurance Program .
Additionally, remember to protect your home by bringing outdoor furniture and other items indoors when a storm is eminent, remove any debris from your yard, trim low hanging limbs and shrubs and clean gutters and downspouts. For more information on preparing for floods and hurricanes look to America's PrepareAthon ! for preparation resources for the hazards that are particularly troublesome for coastal communities.
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Walt Disney World's Epcot is StormStruck!
Ever wonder what it would be like to get caught in a hurricane? StormStruck: The Tale of Two Homes is Epcot's new interactive weather experience, allowing visitors to experience a "spectacular 4-D wind storm" and work together to build a home ready to experience a severe weather situation!
Designed to help guests learn about their risks for natural disasters and local hazards, StormStruck helps people understand their property and their protection and safety options. Epcot and the Federal Alliance for Safe Homes (FLASH) have come together to stress the importance of taking action today to protect families and homes in order to prevent further disaster in the future.
The StormStruck website even includes a section where you can read about and prepare for natural disasters that occur in your state.
The non-profit FLASH is a leading consumer advocate for strengthening homes and safeguarding families from natural and manmade disasters. Read more about other FLASH initiatives at www.flash.org/ .
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Dates for Your Calendar!
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