FEMA Blog

Published by: Public Affairs

Editor's Note (Nov 2): Visit www.fema.gov/eastest for more information, including our new widget.


Over the past few months, we have written on this blog about the upcoming nationwide test of the Emergency Alert System, which is now less than two weeks away. The test will take place on Wednesday, November 9th at 2:00 pm eastern standard time, and will be the first time this system, which is often tested and used by officials at the local level, will be tested across the entire country.

The national Emergency Alert System is an alert and warning system that can be activated by the President, if needed, to provide information to the American public during emergencies. NOAA’s National Weather Service, governors, and state and local emergency authorities also use parts of the system to issue more localized emergency alerts. The test is an important exercise in ensuring that the system is effective in communicating critical information to the public in the event of a real national emergency. It is a critical communications tool that can provide alerts, warning and information rapidly across multiple television and radio platforms.

Our top priority is to make sure that all members of the public know that this test is coming up – and that it is just a test. For most of us, this test will look and sound very similar to the local tests of the Emergency Alert System that we often see on TV or hear on the radio.

But as we always say here at FEMA, we’re just part of the team – and we’re counting on all of you to help us spread the word in your communities, with your co-coworkers, neighbors, friends and loved ones.

To help do that, we have put together a couple of videos you can use to help explain what this test is and what people can expect:

Administrator Fugate and FEMA’s Neil McDevitt explain the test in American Sign language:

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FEMA's Dawn Hart provides key information about the test in Spanish:

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We've been actively engaged with our partners at the Federal Communications Commission, our state, tribal, territorial and local partners, the broadcast community, and other key stakeholders in getting ready for this test. We hope that you will help us spread the word about the Emergency Alert System test by sharing these videos on your websites – or with your communities.

Copy the above code or embed the video from our YouTube channel.

You can read our blog post when we first announced the EAS Test and visit the FCC website for more information about the test, including additional answers to some frequently asked questions.

Publicado por: Relaciones Públicas

Durante los últimos meses, hemos escrito en este blog sobre la próxima prueba nacional del Sistema de Alerta de Emergencias, la cual se efectuará en solo dos semanas. La prueba se realizara el miércoles, 9 de noviembre a las 2:00pm hora del Este. Esta será la primera vez que este sistema se pondrá a prueba a nivel nacional. Es sistema se ha probado a nivel local con frecuencia pero no a nivel de todo el país.

El Sistema de Alerta de Emergencias nacional es un sistema de alerta y avisos que puede ser activado por el Presidente de ser necesario, para proporcionar información a la opinión pública estadounidense durante emergencias. El Servicio Nacional de Meteorología de NOAA, gobernadores, estados y autoridades de emergencias locales también usan este sistema para enviar mensajes de alerta de emergencias a zonas especificas. Esta prueba es un ejercicio importante para garantizar que el sistema es eficaz en la comunicación de información fundamental para el público en caso de una emergencia nacional real. Es una herramienta de comunicación esencial que puede proporcionar alertas, advertencias y la distribución de in formación rápidamente a través de la televisión y plataformas de radio.

Nuestra prioridad principal es asegurarnos de que todo el público tenga conocimiento de que esta prueba se acerca, y de que es solo una prueba. Para la mayoría de nosotros, esta prueba se verá y sonará similar a las pruebas del Sistema de Alerta de Emergencias locales, que vemos con frecuencia en la televisión o escuchamos en la radio.

Pero como siempre decimos en FEMA, somos solo una parte del equipo, y estamos contando con todos ustedes para difundir el mensaje en sus comunidades, compañeros de trabajo, vecinos, amigos y seres queridos.

Para ayudarle a difundir el mensaje, hemos reunido los siguientes videos para que le ayude a explicar de qué se trata la prueba y lo que se puede espera de la misma:

Dawn Hart de FEMA proporciona información fundamental sobre la prueba en español:

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El Administrador Fugate y Neil McDevitt de FEMA explican la prueba en Lenguaje de señas Americano:


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Hemos participado activamente con nuestros asociados de la Comisión Federal de Comunicaciones, nuestros asociados estatales, tribales y locales, la comunidad de difusión y otras partes interesadas para estar listos para esta prueba. Esperamos que nos ayuden a difundir el mensaje sobre la prueba del Sistema de Alerta de Emergencias al compartir estos videos en sus sitios de Internet o con sus comunidades.

Copie el código anterior o inserte el video desde nuestro canal en YouTube.

Puede leer nuestro mensaje de blog cuando la prueba se anuncio por primera vez y visitar el sitio de Internet de la Comisión Federal de Comunicaciones para obtener más información sobre la prueba, incluyendo la sección de preguntas y respuestas.

Posted by: Public Affairs


October 28, 2011 - National Weather Service national map of the probability of snow accumulation over the next two days.

Colder weather coming for many

Some people thoroughly enjoy colder weather and the white fluffy stuff that often comes with it, while others continually look for a way to escape the cold for warmer temperatures. Regardless of your stance on cold and snow, it’s the time of year when temperatures are dropping as winter approaches.

Areas around the Rocky Mountains and the Upper Midwest have already had their first snowfall, and forecasts from the National Weather Service predict the Northeast could experience several inches of snow this weekend.

Now is the time to make sure your home and family are prepared for colder temperatures – and Ready.gov has some specific tips on how you can get ready. Here are a few to get you started:

• Thoroughly check and update your family's emergency supply kit before winter approaches and add the following supplies in preparation for winter weather.
• Rock salt or more environmentally safe products to melt ice on walkways,
• Sand to improve traction on exterior walkways,
• Snow shovels and other snow removal equipment, and
• Also include adequate clothing and blankets to keep you warm.
• Have an emergency kit in your car, in the event you are stranded by a blizzard or traffic jam. Be sure to include items you would need to stay warm and comfortable for at least 72 hours.
• Learn how to shut off water valves (in case a pipe bursts).
• Know what to do if the power goes out. Winter storms can also cause power outages, so make sure you take precautions to get prepared.
• Be familiar with severe winter weather terminology:
• Winter Storm Watch means severe weather such as heavy snow or ice is possible in the next day or two. Follow local news reports and be alert to changing weather conditions.
• Winter Storm Warning means severe winter conditions have begun or will begin very soon. Stay indoors during the storm and avoid traveling.
• Blizzard Warning means heavy snow and strong winds will produce a blinding snow, near zero visibility, deep drifts and life-threatening wind chill. (Obviously, you’ll want to stay inside and avoid traveling during a blizzard.)
• Frost/Freeze Warning means below freezing temperatures are expected.

And in case you missed it, check out this New York Times story where our Boston native and resident winter weather expert, Deputy Administrator Rich Serino, talks about ways you can get prepared for a power outage – a possibility after a severe winter storm.

Rina Fizzling Out
According the National Hurricane Center forecasts, the remnants of Hurricane Rina are still swirling in the Caribbean, and pose little to no threat to the U.S. or its territories. We continue to closely monitor the tropics, as hurricane season lasts until November 30. If you live in an area that may be affected by hurricanes or tropical storms, take steps to get prepared today at Ready.gov/hurricanes.

Posted by: Public Affairs


Minot, ND, October 13, 2011 -- David Myers (left), Director of the DHS Center for Faith-based and Neighborhood Partnerships, and FEMA Region VIII Administrator Robin Finegan, at a flood-damaged home. Myers and Finegan were in Minot meeting with faith-based groups and surveying the damage caused by June's Souris River flooding.

Robin Finegan, Administrator, FEMA Region VIII (Colorado, Montana, North Dakota, South Dakota, Utah, Wyoming) and David Myers, Director of the DHS Center for Faith-based and Neighborhood Partnerships were in Minot recently and wanted to provide their perspective on the recovery efforts and vital role of faith-based and community groups.

Below is an update from Robin on the ongoing recovery in Minot:

Historic flooding of the Souris River damaged thousands of homes, businesses, farms, and public facilities across North Dakota, most notably in the town of Minot and in Ward County. FEMA continues to provide assistance to disaster survivors and local governments affected by the flooding and its aftermath.

As winter approaches, FEMA’s main focus is to ensure that residents have a safe, warm place to stay. With housing resources limited in the Minot area, FEMA has brought in more than 2,000 mobile homes for eligible survivors to live in as they restore their homes or identify permanent housing. Work continues to get these units in place, and to move families in as soon as possible.

In addition to providing temporary living arrangements for survivors, we’re also working with Minot residents on winterization of flood damaged homes. Strong partnerships between FEMA and faith-based and community groups are critical as we continue to reach out to all survivors. These community groups are valuable partners before, during and after disasters as they support survivors and communities.

With more specifics on the steps Minot homeowners are taking and the role of faith-based and community organizations, here’s David Myers:

The “winterize-ing” that Robin is referring to is a process called “cut and muck” and “button up”. “Cut and muck” means removing the sludge and mud from the basements of damaged homes to minimize freezing during the winter months and cause stress on the home’s foundations. Many -- if not most – of the damaged homes cannot be repaired until spring; that’s where “button up” comes in. This means putting heaters and insulation in basements to prevent freezing and further damage to the structure.

During our visit to North Dakota, Robin and I met with leaders of the voluntary agency community, as well as local leaders from Minot. As with any disaster, the contributions of faith-based and community groups are having a tremendous impact. During the response phase, local National VOAD agencies, along with faith-based groups, stepped up to the many challenges: sheltering, mass feeding, working to ensure the safety of pets, and numerous other response-phase activities. Now these and other groups are taking on the tasks of long-term recovery. The response and recovery even went “international,” with Mennonite Disaster Service teams coming from Canada (beginning a two-year commitment to help), Christian Reform World Relief Committee, Presbyterian Disaster Assistance, and others.

Here’s some of their work in photos...


Minot, ND, October 13, 2011 -- FEMA Region VIII Administrator Robin Finegan and David Myers (center), Director of the DHS Center for Faith-based and Neighborhood Partnerships, visit with National Voluntary Organizations Active in Disaster President Mickey Caison (left) during a meeting with volunteers from the Lutheran Social Services of North Dakota who are helping prepare or "button up" a flooded Minot home before winter. Finegan and Myers were in Minot meeting with faith-based groups and surveying the damage caused by June's Souris River flooding.


Minot, ND, October 12, 2011 -- FEMA Region VIII Administrator Robin Finegan visits with Dale, a Wisconsin-based volunteer helping the Lutheran Social Services of North Dakota clean and "muck out" a flooded Minot home. Finegan was in Minot meeting with faith-based groups and surveying the damage caused by June's Souris River flooding.


Minot, ND, October 12, 2011 -- David Myers, Director of the DHS Center for Faith-based and Neighborhood Partnerships, addresses a Minot Community Organization Active in Disaster meeting about recovery efforts at Minot's Vincent United Methodist Church. Myers was in Minot meeting with faith-based groups and surveying the damage caused by June's Souris River flooding.


Minot, ND, October 13, 2011 -- David Myers, Director of the DHS Center for Faith-based and Neighborhood Partnerships, stands by the steps and door front remains of a flooded Minot home as a Lutheran Social Services of North Dakota volunteer helps prepare or "button up" a home before winter. Myers was in Minot meeting with faith-based groups and surveying the damage caused by June's Souris River flooding.

(Accompanying Robin and David were National Voluntary Organizations Active in Disaster (National VOAD) President, Mickey Caison; Erin Coryell, from the Margaret A. Cargill Foundation; Region VIII VAL, Art Storey; and others. Federal Coordinating Officer Deanne Criswell, joined the team, as well as staff members from the North Dakota Senators’ and Representative’s offices who participated in many of the meetings. Several members of the team also met with the Minot Area Community Foundation to discuss aspects of the recovery. )

Published by: Public Affairs

Earlier today, the National Hurricane Center downgraded Rina to a tropical storm, and their latest forecasts say the storm will have a limited impact on the U.S. mainland or territories. As Rina is losing its strength, we’re also closely watching another potentially developing storm in the south Caribbean.

While it’s good news that Rina isn’t expected to pose much of a threat, the current activity in the tropics is a reminder that the Atlantic hurricane season lasts until November 30. As we near the end of the season, hurricanes and tropical storms are likely to form in the Caribbean, and can affect both coastal and inland areas of the U.S. and its territories.

The time to get prepared is before a tropical storm or hurricane threatens your community. You and your family can get started today by visiting Ready.gov/hurricanes, and by implementing some of these simple tips:

• Create an emergency supply kit that will sustain your family (including pets) for at least 72 hours. Your kit should include water, non-perishable food items, a flashlight, extra batteries, a hand-crank radio, any medical or prescription items you may need, and other supplies. Download the FEMA App (Apple and Android users) to check off items in your interactive emergency kit.

• Review and practice what your family would do during an emergency. We call this an “emergency plan”, and it spells out how you and your family will stay in touch, where you would meet, and who you would contact in case disaster strikes.

• Stay up to date with the latest conditions in your area. Know the TV and radio stations where you can find breaking news for your area. On your computer or mobile phone, bookmark useful websites like the FEMA mobile site, National Hurricane Center mobile site, or the Centers for Disease Control & Prevention mobile site. And find out if your local emergency management agency has an emergency notification system, and how you would receive their updates. (More tips on staying informed at Ready.gov.)

Publicado por: Relaciones Públicas

Hoy más temprano, el Centro Nacional de Huracanes otorgó a Rina la calificación de tormenta tropical, y el último pronóstico indica que la tormenta tendrá un impacto limitado en los Estados Unidos o sus territorios. Debido a que Rina está perdiendo fuerza, también estamos siguiendo de cerca el posible desarrollo de otra tormenta en el sur del Caribe.

Si bien son buenas noticias que Rina no represente una gran amenaza, la actividad actual en los trópicos nos recuerda que la temporada de huracanes del Atlántico se extiende hasta el 30 de noviembre. A medida que nos acercamos al final de la temporada, es probable que los huracanes y las tormentas tropicales se formen en el Caribe, y que afecten tanto la zona de la costa como tierra adentro en los EE. UU. y sus territorios.

El momento de prepararse es antes de que una tormenta tropical o un huracán amenacen a su comunidad. Usted y su familia pueden comenzar hoy mismo ingresando en Ready.gov/hurricanes (http://www.listo.gov/) e implementando algunos de estos simples consejos:

• Arme un equipo con suministros de emergencia que ayudará a su familia (incluidas las mascotas) durante al menos 72 horas. El equipo debe incluir agua, alimentos no perecederos, linterna, baterías adicionales, radio portátil, artículos médicos o medicamentos recetados que usted pueda necesitar, y otros suministros. Descargue la aplicación de FEMA (usuarios de Apple y Android) para controlar los artículos en el equipo de emergencia interactivo.

• Revise y practique qué debe hacer su familia durante una emergencia. Es lo que llamamos “plan de emergencia”, que detalla la manera en que usted y su familia deben mantenerse en contacto, dónde deben reunirse, y con quién deben comunicarse en caso de que ocurra un desastre.

• Manténgase actualizado con las últimas noticias de las condiciones en su área. Conozca las estaciones de televisión y radio donde puede encontrar noticias de último momento sobre su área. Guarde en su computadora o en su teléfono móvil sitios web útiles como el sitio móvil de FEMA, el sitio móvil del Centro Nacional de Huracanes, o el sitio móvil del Centros para el Control y la Prevención de Enfermedades. Y consulte si su agencia de manejo de emergencias local tiene un sistema de notificación de emergencias y de qué manera debe recibir las actualizaciones. (Encuentre más consejos sobre cómo mantenerse informado en listo.gov).

Posted by: Shayne Adamski, Senior Manager, Digital Engagement

Here’s a short video from Administrator Fugate announcing the FEMA App is now available for Apple devices:

After we launched the App for Android devices, we received feedback from users and have made some updates to the version for Apple devices. One of the things that people said is that the popup box in the map section was cumbersome on a phone’s small screen, so we:

• Moved the disclaimer language to its own page so users can interact better with the map.
• Gave users the opportunity to choose between the Map view and the List view, whereas before, the App took the user directly into the Map view first. We made this change, because the List view loads faster, so if you’re in an area where you don’t have a strong wireless signal, the list view option is for you.

We’re making the same changes to the Android version and we’ll be publishing an update this week.

When we launched the App for Android devices in August, we were monitoring Hurricane Irene as it threatened the East Coast and today we’re monitoring Tropical Storm Rina in the Caribbean. It’s a good reminder that we are still in hurricane season and that everyone should have an emergency kit and a family emergency plan, and I’m proud to say that Apple devices have an App to help you do just that.

So download the App today (Android; Apple) and let us know what you think by leaving a comment below or in the iTunes Store or Android Marketplace.

Por: Shayne Adamski, Desarrollo digital

Presentamos un video del Administrador Fugate anunciando que la aplicación de FEMA está disponible para Apple devices:

Después del lanzamiento de la aplicación para dispositivos Android, recibimos retroalimentación de los usuarios y realizamos algunos cambios para la versión de dispositivos Apple. Uno de los comentarios de las personas fue que el mapa no funcionaba propiamente en la pantalla pequeña de los teléfonos, por lo tanto:

• Trasladamos el lenguaje de negación a otra página para que los usuarios interactuaran mejor con el mapa.

• Ahora, los usuarios tiene la oportunidad de seleccionar entre la vista del mapa o vista de lista, anteriormente la aplicación mostraba solamente la pantalla de la vista del mapa. Hicimos estos cambios porque la vista de lista descarga más rápido y si el usuario esta en un área con poca señal la opción de vista de lista es preferible.

Estamos haciendo los mismos cambios en la versión Android y se publicara una versión actualizada en las próximas semanas.

Cuando lanzamos la aplicación para los dispositivos Android en agosto estábamos monitoreando el huracán Irene mientras amenazaba a la costa Este y ahora estamos en vigilancia de la tormenta tropical Rina en el Caribe. Es un recordatorio de que todavía estamos en temporada de huracanes y que todos debemos tener el equipo de emergencia y plan familiar de emergencia, estamos orgullosos de decir que los dispositivos Apple tienen una aplicación que puede ayudarle a estar preparado.

Así que descarga la aplicación ahora (Android; Apple) y háganos saber lo que piensa haciendo un comentario más abajo o en la tienda de iTunes o el mercado de Android.

Posted by: Stephen M. De Blasio Sr., Federal Coordinating Officer, Connecticut Tropical Storm Irene

In my last blog post, I talked about how FEMA is reaching out in the community to help survivors of Tropical Storm Irene rebuild smarter. Since the response to sharing these rebuilding tips in Connecticut has been positive, I’d like to share how one Connecticut couple benefited from using some of these techniques.

Tropical Storm Irene’s fierce winds collapsed houses into the Long Island Sound along the Connecticut coast, and rocked some homes off their foundations. In many cases, second floors of houses along the coast were destroyed. Some residents said the storm was the worst they had experienced in 50 years.

One couple, John and Regina, even found seashells strongly embedded into the second floor deck of their house in East Haven. However, their home suffered significantly less damage than neighboring homes because of some smart building techniques that had implemented long before the storm.

A seawall, which helped deflect the force of the waves, was in place when John & Regina bought their nearly 100-year-old house in 2003.

The couple then implemented a few other techniques to protect their home against flooding, most of which were relatively simple to accomplish. Below are photos of these techniques in action – to learn more about protecting your home from flooding, visit Ready.gov/floods.

Elevate Critical Appliances & Outlets


They installed their hot water heater and furnace in their attic and elevated their house in 2006 – raising their deck to 14.5 feet above the surface of the beach.

Two air conditioning units and an electrical box are stored on a platform that fits them alongside the house, on the second floor level. The platform can be reached by service technicians and meter readers by a service staircase built especially for such access.


Above: This staircase was built specifically to lead to a platform on the exterior of a home along the Long Island Sound in East Haven, Conn. where two air conditioning units and an electrical box are stored. The equipment, elevated to the second floor of the home, was not damaged during Tropical Storm Irene.

Electrical outlets have been elevated at least four feet higher than normal.


Above: Moisture-resistant cement board is being installed in this home along the Long Island Sound in East Haven, Conn.; Electric outlets have been elevated to minimize damage during future flooding.

Protect the Exterior of the Structure

Breakaway walls were installed on the ground level of the house.


Above: Breakaway walls (just above the sidewalk) helped reduce damages to this home along the Long Island Sound in East Haven, Conn. during Tropical Storm Irene.

Permanent storm shutters frame the front windows of John & Regina’s house; rolling shutters protect the back windows of the house, which faces the rugged waters of the Long Island Sound.


Above: Permanent rolling shutters helped reduce damages to this home along the Long Island Sound in East Haven, Conn. during Tropical Storm Irene.

Four feet of sheetrock and insulation, damaged by Tropical Storm Irene, was removed and will be replaced by moisture-resistant insulation. The moisture resistant insulation will be installed behind a panel of cement board.


Above: Moisture-resistant insulation is being installed in this home along the Long Island Sound in East Haven, Conn.

Posted by: Public Affairs

We continue to closely watch Hurricane Rina as it swirls in the Caribbean. Rina currently has maximum sustained winds of over 100 mph, and is forecast to approach the Yucatan Peninsula by Thursday morning.


October 25, 2011 – Photo of Hurricane Rina just off the coast of the Yucatan Peninsula (courtesy of National Hurricane Center).

While it is still too early to know whether Rina will affect the U.S. mainland or territories in the Caribbean, our regional offices in Atlanta, New York (responsible for supporting Puerto Rico & the U.S. Virgin Islands) and Denton, Texas are closely monitoring the storm. For the latest updates on Hurricane Rina or developing severe tropical weather, visit the National Hurricane Center online at hurricanes.gov (hurricanes.gov/mobile on your mobile device), or follow them on Facebook or Twitter.

The Atlantic hurricane season runs through November 30, and late October can be an active part of the season as storms tend to develop in the Caribbean. So if you haven’t already, now is the time to be prepared if you live in a coastal area or could be affected by severe tropical weather. Visit Ready.gov/hurricanes (Listo.gov para español) to learn how to prepare your home and family for a hurricane or tropical storm.

Publicado por: Relaciones Públicas

Seguimos vigilando de cerca el huracán Rina mientras da vueltas en el Caribe. Actualmente, Rina tiene vientos máximos sostenidos de más de 100 millas por hora. Los pronósticos son que estará impactando a la Península de Yucatán en la mañana del jueves.



Aunque todavía es demasiado pronto para saber si Rina impactará la parte continental de los Estados Unidos o los territorios del Caribe, nuestras oficinas de Atlanta, New York (que es responsable de apoyar a Puerto Rico y las Islas Vírgenes de los Estados Unidos) y Denton, Texas están monitoreando de cerca la tormenta. Para más información sobre las últimas actualizaciones del huracán Rina o el desarrollo de clima tropical severo, visite la página del Centro Nacional de Huracanes en hurricanes.gov (hurricanes.gov/mobile en su teléfono móvil), o en Facebook o Twitter.

La temporada de huracanes del Atlántico es hasta el 30 de noviembre y puede que la última semana de octubre sea una parte activa de la temporada, ya que las tormentas tienden a desarrollarse en el Caribe. Si todavía no lo ha hecho, ahora es el momento de estar preparado, especialmente si vive en la zona costera o puede verse afectado por un clima tropical severo. Visite Listo.gov/huracanes para aprender sobre la preparación de su hogar y familia en caso de huracanes o tormenta tropical.

Posted by: Public Affairs


October 24 - Hurricane Rina forecast graphic from the National Hurricane Center.

We’re closely monitoring Hurricane Rina in the western Caribbean.  According to the National Hurricane Center, Hurricane Rina will gradually turn toward the west over the next 48 hours, remaining in the Caribbean through Friday.

While it’s still too early to know if Rina's track will affect the U.S. mainland or our territories in the Caribbean, Rina’s development serves as a reminder that we are still in a very active hurricane season.

Here are some tips for preparing for severe tropical weather:

• Remember to include items like a flashlight, hand-crank radio, and a solar powered cell phone charger in your emergency kit to sustain your family for at least 72 hours.

• Your family may not be together when disaster strikes, so it is important to know how you will contact one another (i.e., text messaging), how you will get back together and what you will do in case of an emergency.

Visit www.ready.gov or www.listo.gov for tips on creating your family emergency plan and putting together an emergency supply kit.

And remember to follow local TV and radio reports for the latest conditions in your area, and visit the National Weather Service at weather.gov (or http://mobile.weather.gov/ on your phone) for the latest severe weather watches/warnings in your area.

Publicado por: Relaciones Públicas


24 de octubre – Gráfico de pronóstico del Huracán Rina proporcionado por el Centro Nacional de Huracanes.

Estamos observando de cerca al Huracán Rina en el oeste del Caribe. Según el Centro Nacional de Huracanes, el Huracán Rina se dirigirá en forma gradual hacia el oeste en las próximas 48 horas, y permanecerá en el Caribe hasta el viernes.

Si bien es demasiado temprano para saber si el trayecto de Rina afectará a los Estados Unidos o a sus territorios en el Caribe, el desarrollo de Rina sirve como recordatorio de que aún estamos en una temporada de huracanes muy activa.

Los siguientes son algunos consejos para prepararse para condiciones climáticas tropicales severas:

• Recuerde incluir artículos como linterna, radio portátil y cargador de teléfono celular de energía solar en su equipo de emergencias para ayudar a su familia durante por lo menos 72 horas.

• Es posible que los miembros de su familia no estén juntos cuando ocurra un desastre, por eso es importante saber cómo se comunicarán entre ustedes (por ejemplo: mensajes de texto), cómo se volverán a reunir y qué harán en caso de una emergencia.

Visite http://www.ready.gov/ o http://www.listo.gov/ para obtener consejos sobre cómo crear un plan de emergencia familiar y cómo organizar un equipo con suministros de emergencia.

También recuerde seguir los informes de la radio y la TV locales para conocer las últimas condiciones en su área, y visite el Servicio Meteorológico Nacional en weather.gov (o http://mobile.weather.gov/ en su teléfono) para obtener información sobre las últimas advertencias/alertas climáticas en su área.

Posted by: Public Affairs

The White House released this statement from the President earlier today:

We have been following reports of the earthquake in Turkey's eastern province of Van with great concern. On behalf of the American people, I express my deepest condolences to the families of the victims. Our thoughts and prayers are with the brave men and women who are working to bring assistance to this stricken region. We stand shoulder to shoulder with our Turkish ally in this difficult time, and are ready to assist the Turkish authorities.

In addition to the President's statement, we also pass along our thoughts and prayers to the disaster survivors and to the families of those who have lost loved ones. As with all international emergencies, the State Department and U.S. Agency for International Development are the lead agencies for coordinating with impacted countries and we'll continue to work closely with them as they monitor the situation and offer assistance.

For additional updates from the U.S. Department of State, you can follow their Twitter and Facebook pages:

On Twitter: @StateDept, @TravelGov & @USEmbassyTurkey

On Facebook: U.S. Dept. of State & U.S. Embassy Ankara, Turkey

The earthquake is also a reminder that disasters can happen at any time, so for people in the United States, now is a good time to put together a family plan and get an emergency kit. Visit Ready.gov/earthquakes and share the link with friends and family.

Publicado por: Relaciones Públicas

La Casa Blanca publicó esta declaración del Presidente el 23 de octubre del 2011:

Con gran preocupación hemos estado siguiendo los informes del terremoto ocurrido en la provincia de Van en el este de Turquía. En nombre del pueblo estadounidense, expreso mi más sentido pésame a los familiares de las víctimas. Nuestros pensamientos y oraciones están con los hombres y mujeres valientes que están trabajando proporcionando ayuda a la región afectada. Estamos hombro con hombro con nuestros aliados de Turquía en estos momentos difíciles y listos para ayudar a las autoridades turcas.

Además de la declaración presidencial, también enviamos nuestros pensamientos y oraciones para los sobrevivientes del desastre y los familiares de aquellos que han perdido a sus seres queridos. Como en todas las emergencias internacionales, el Departamento del Estado y la Agencia de Desarrollo Internacional de los Estados Unidos son los principales organismos de coordinación con los países afectados. Estas agencias continuarán trabajando en estrecha colaboración mientras ellos monitorean su situación y así ofrecer la ayuda pertinente.

Para actualizaciones adicionales del Departamento del Estado de los Estados Unidos, puede seguir sus mensajes en Twitter y páginas de Facebook:

En Twitter: @StateDept, @TravelGov & @USEmbassyTurkey

En Facebook: U.S. Dept. of State & U.S. Embassy Ankara, Turkey

También, este terremoto es un recordatorio de que los desastres pueden ocurrir en cualquier momento. A las personas de los Estados Unidos, ahora es un buen momento para hacer un plan familiar y obtener un equipo de emergencias. Visite Listo.gov/terremotos y comparte este enlace con familiares y amigos.

Posted by: Public Affairs

Every Friday, we post a “What We’re Watching” blog as we look ahead to the weekend. We encourage you to share it with your friends and family, and have a safe weekend.

Emergency Alert System Test

Just a friendly reminder, the Emergency Alert System Test is November 9 at 2 p.m. eastern. We’re working closely with our partners at the Federal Communications Commission and broadcasters across the country to ensure people know what to expect. Remember, it’s only a test.

Tropical Activity in Atlantic



We continue to closely monitor two areas of interest which have a chance of developing into a more organized tropical storm system. Hurricane season lasts until November 30, so we encourage you and your family to take the steps to get prepared for the threat of possible tropical storms and hurricanes.

Make sure you have an emergency kit to sustain you and your family for at least 72 hours and an emergency plan so you know where to go and who to contact if a tropical storm or hurricane forms.

Visit Ready.gov/hurricanes to learn the steps you can take to get you and your family prepared.

Week in Photos

Below are a few photos from the past week of different preparedness and recovery efforts throughout the U.S.


Aurora, NC, October 18, 2011 -- A homeowner in the South Point neighborhood, points out to an inspector how his home was configured. FEMA is working with the state to assist with the removal of debris from areas that sustained damages.


Los Angeles, CA, October 20, 2011 -- Antonio R. Villaraigosa, Los Angeles Mayor delivered comments after participating in ShakeOut at a Target store in Northridge, California. The Mayor is accompanied by representatives of numerous local, state, Federal, and private-sector partner agencies including Los Angeles City and County public safety departments, CalEMA, the Southern California Earthquake Center, the California Earthquake Authority, FEMA, USGS, NORTHCOM, State Farm, and the American Red Cross. Everyone at the Target store, from clerks to shoppers and the Mayor himself, practiced their “drop, cover, and hold on” technique following a storewide announcement timed to coincide with similar exercises throughout the state.


Minot, ND, October 20, 2011 -- David Miller (second in line), Associate Administrator of the FEMA's Federal Insurance and Mitigation Administration, arrives in Minot with other federal and local officials. FEMA is working with state and local partners to provide assistance to those affected by June's historic Souris River flood in Minot.


Charlotte, VT, October 16, 2011 -- A mobile hay wagon displays FEMA's disaster assistance information on Route 7 in Charlotte, Vermont. The Vermont Farm Bureau and FEMA are working together to encourage those affected by Tropical Storm Irene to register by the October 31st deadline.


Minot, ND, October 20, 2011 -- FEMA Associate Administrator of Response and Recovery William Carwile (left) surveys a flood-damaged Minot neighborhood. The owner recently moved back into the home. FEMA is working with state and local partners to provide assistance to those affected by June's historic Souris River flood in Minot.


Wall Township, NJ, October 15, 2011 -- Robert Knight and Susan Langhoff, FEMA Private Sector Specialists along with Richard Adkins, FEMA Community Relations Specialist assisted the Monmouth Council - Boy Scouts of America earn their Emergency Preparedness Badge during their Camporee held at Allaire State Park in Wall Township, NJ.


Schoharie, NY, October 15, 2011 -- Dimaldy Cruz-Carlo, Mitigation Specialist speaks to a disaster survivor at the Schoharie Flood Benefit about preparing for future disasters, flood insurance and rebuilding safe and stronger homes. FEMA plays a vital role supporting State, Tribal and local governments as they respond to the impacts of Hurricane Irene.

Posted by: Jeff Byard, Alabama EMA State Coordinating Officer

Six months after one of Alabama’s deadliest tornado outbreaks, you can’t help but reflect on what you were doing when you learned of the magnitude of the April 27th storms and what those first images and sounds were like as people described the storms’ impact on their lives. As the State Coordinating Officer for Alabama Emergency Management Agency, my mission was meeting the immediate needs of the survivors, ensuring they had a place to shelter, something to eat and staff available to answer their questions as they made future plans regarding their recovery.

In the midst of sheer devastation, the April storms are an example of team work and coordination, between the locals, state, federal, private and volunteer partners. As I reflect back, if a part of that puzzle was missing, the response and recovery would not have gone as well. With any big, life-altering event, you walk away with life lessons; as an agency we are looking at definite areas we want to modify and amend before the next disaster. I’m convinced that this will not be the worst disaster that we will ever face, as bad as this disaster was for the state. That’s why it’s important for AEMA to continue to train and exercise for the worst-case scenario and hope for the best outcome.

Six months later, this mission is far from over. That is why it is imperative for the AEMA staff and the rest of Alabamians not to forget the lives lost as a result of the April 27 storms and the April 15 storms. Each of us can honor the memory of the victims by making sure our friends, family members and neighbors take severe weather preparedness serious.

Here’s an update on the work we’ve done and our ongoing recovery efforts following the devastating storms in Alabama six months ago:



To learn more about preparedness in Alabama, visit http://www.ema.alabama.gov/.

Publicado por: Jeff Byard, Coordinador Estatal de la Agencia de Alabama para el Manejo de Emergencias

Seis meses después de que uno de los más devastadores tornados azotaron Alabama, es imposible no reflexionar sobre qué estaba haciendo cuando supo la magnitud de las tormentas del 27 de abril y cómo se veían las primeras imágenes y sonidos a medida que las personas describían el impacto de la tormenta en sus vidas. Como Coordinador Estatal de la Agencia de Alabama para el Manejo de Emergencias (AEMA, por sus siglas en inglés), mi misión fue satisfacer de inmediato las necesidades de los sobrevivientes asegurándome de que tuvieran un lugar para refugiarse, algo para comer y personal disponible para responder sus preguntas a medida que planificaban su recuperación.

En el medio de la devastación, las tormentas de abril son un ejemplo de trabajo en equipo y coordinación entre colaboradores voluntarios privados, federales, estatales y locales. Al reflexionar, me doy cuenta de que si hubiera faltado una parte del rompecabezas, la respuesta y recuperación no habrían sido tan buenas. En cualquier evento importante que altera la vida, siempre se aprende una lección; como agencia prestamos atención a áreas específicas que queremos modificar antes de que ocurra el próximo desastre. Estoy convencido de que, si bien fue terrible para el estado, este no será el peor desastre que enfrentaremos. Es por eso que es importante que AEMA continúe capacitándose y ejercitando para la peor situación posible y espere el mejor resultado.

Seis meses después, esta misión está lejos del fin. Es por eso que es de gran importancia para el personal de AEMA y para el resto de los residentes de Alabama no olvidar las vidas que se fueron como resultado de las tormentas ocurridas el 15 y el 27 de abril. Cada uno de nosotros puede honrar la memoria de las víctimas asegurándose de que sus amigos, familiares y vecinos tomen muy en serio la preparación para desastres.

A continuación, les ofrezco una actualización del trabajo que hicimos y de nuestras iniciativas de recuperación en curso luego de las devastadoras tormentas de Alabama ocurridas hace seis meses:



Para obtener más información acerca de la preparación en Alabama, visite http://www.ema.alabama.gov/.

Posted by: Paulette Aniskoff, Director, Individual and Community Preparedness

I am thrilled to announce the winners of the 2011 FEMA Individual and Community Preparedness Awards! We received applications from 36 States, as well as Puerto Rico and the Virgin Islands. The applications reflected the full breadth of the emergency management team, with submissions from faith-based, tribal, non-profit, private sector, and community-based organizations, as well as individuals.

Winners showed incredible innovation and creativity. I am honored to recognize organizations such as the Washington State Emergency Management Division and individuals like the late John D. Solomon who are making a difference in people’s lives by emphasizing the importance of preparedness.

One examples of an award winner is the San Manuel Band of Serrano Mission Indians, who developed a "Send Word Now" system which provides text messages, email and voice alerts to tribal members during emergencies. Several of this year's winners also distinguished themselves by involving their entire community in emergency preparedness. For instance, the New York City Citizen Corps program collaborated with more than 60 community organizations, government agencies, private sector organizations, and volunteer programs to promote emergency preparedness.

Others were exemplary in their ability to train and educate community members. The American Red Cross of Greater Chicago trained more than 55,000 youth and their families in over 20 low-income neighborhoods. And the Earthquake Country Alliance conducted the successful Great California ShakeOut, an annual statewide earthquake drill that involves millions of participants - a concept that has been replicated in other states and countries.

Here’s a full list of this year's award winners and their respective categories:

• Outstanding State Citizen Corps Council Initiatives: Arkansas State Citizen Corps (AR)

• Outstanding Local Citizen Corps Council Initiatives: New York City Citizen Corps (NY)

• Outstanding Community Emergency Response Team Initiatives: NBC Universal CERT (CA)

• Outstanding Achievement in Youth Preparedness: American Red Cross of Greater Chicago (IL)

• Preparing the Whole Community: San Manuel Band of Serrano Mission Indians (CA)

• Promising Partnerships: Be Ready Alliance Coordinating for Emergencies (BRACE) (FL)

• Engagement with Faith-Based Communities: David L. Maack (WI)

• Innovative Training and Education Programs: Washington State Emergency Management Division (WA)

• Outstanding Drill, Exercise, or Event: The Great Central United States ShakeOut (TN)

• Awareness to Action: Earthquake Country Alliance (CA)

• Innovative Use of Technology: Citizen Corps of St. Clair County (MI)

• Outstanding Achievement in Public Health: Cobb County Public Health Preparedness and Response (GA)

• Community Preparedness Heroes: Brenda Gormley (TX), Tod Pritchard (WI), Carolyn Bluhm (CO)

• First Annual Recipient of the John D. Solomon Preparedness Award: John D. Solomon, Creator of In Case of Emergency, Read Blog (NY)

Award winners will receive their awards and be honored guests at a community preparedness roundtable event in Washington, D.C., where they can share their experiences, ideas, and solutions on community preparedness with other award winners, Citizen Corps program managers, and other FEMA officials.

Congratulations to this year’s winners and those that received honorable mentions, and thank you all for the amazing work you do to prepare your communities.

Publicado por: Paulette Aniskoff, directora de Preparación Individual y Comunitaria

Me complace anunciar los ganadores de los Premios de FEMA a la Preparación Individual y Comunitaria 2011. Recibimos participaciones de 36 estados, incluidos Puerto Rico y las Islas Vírgenes. Las participaciones reflejaron el alcance total del equipo de manejo de emergencias, y hubo presentaciones de organizaciones religiosas, tribales, sin fines de lucro, del sector privado y comunitarias, además de las presentaciones de individuos.

Los ganadores demostraron innovación y creatividad increíbles. Me complace brindar reconocimiento a organizaciones como la División del Estado de Washington para el Manejo de Emergencias y a personas como el difunto John D. Solomon, que marcan la diferencia en la vida de las personas al enfatizar la importancia de la preparación.

Un ejemplo de los ganadores de los premios es la Agrupación San Manuel Band de los Serrano Mission Indians, que desarrolló el sistema “Envía el aviso ahora” ("Send Word Now") que proporciona alertas de voz y por mensajes de texto y correo electrónico a los miembros de la tribu durante emergencias. Muchos de los ganadores de este año también se distinguieron al involucrar a toda la comunidad en la preparación para emergencias. Por ejemplo, el programa del Cuerpo de Ciudadanos de la Ciudad de Nueva York colaboró con más de 60 organizaciones comunitarias, agencias gubernamentales, organizaciones privadas y programas voluntarios para promocionar la preparación para emergencias.

Otros tuvieron un desempeño ejemplar en la capacitación y educación de los miembros de la comunidad. La Cruz Roja Americana del Área Metropolitana de Chicago capacitó a más de 55,000 jóvenes y a sus familias en más de 20 vecindarios de bajos ingresos. Y la Earthquake Country Alliance llevó a cabo el exitoso Great California ShakeOut, el simulacro de terremoto anual de todo el estado en el que participan millones de personas –un concepto que ha sido copiado por otros estados y países.

La siguiente es la lista completa de los ganadores de los premios de este año y sus respectivas categorías:

• Iniciativas destacadas de concejos de cuerpos de ciudadanos estatales: Cuerpo de Ciudadanos Estatal de Arkansas (AR)

• Iniciativas destacadas de concejos de cuerpos de ciudadanos locales: Cuerpo de Ciudadanos de la Ciudad de Nueva York (NY)

• Iniciativas destacadas de equipos de respuesta ante emergencias comunitarios: NBC Universal CERT (CA)

• Logros destacados en preparación de la juventud: Cruz Roja Americana del Área Metropolitana de Chicago (IL)

• Preparación de toda la comunidad: Agrupación San Manuel Band de los Serrano Mission Indians (CA)

• Asociación prometedora: Be Ready Alliance Coordinating for Emergencies (BRACE) (FL)

• Compromiso con las comunidades religiosas: David L. Maack (WI)

• Programas innovadores de capacitación y educación: División del Estado de Washington para el Manejo de Emergencias (WA)

• Simulacro, ejercicio o evento destacado: The Great Central United States ShakeOut (TN)

• De la concientización a la acción: Earthquake Country Alliance (CA)

• Uso innovador de la tecnología: Cuerpo de Ciudadanos del Condado de St. Clair (MI)

• Logro destacado en salud pública: Preparación y Respuesta en Salud Pública del Condado de Cobb (GA)

• Héroes de la preparación comunitaria: Brenda Gormley (TX), Tod Pritchard (WI), Carolyn Bluhm (CO)

• Primer receptor anual del Premio John D. Solomon a la Preparación: John D. Solomon, creador del blog In Case of Emergency, Read (NY)

Los ganadores recibirán sus premios y serán los invitados de honor en una mesa redonda de preparación comunitaria en Washington, D. C. Este evento también les dará la oportunidad de compartir sus experiencias, ideas y soluciones de preparación comunitaria con los demás ganadores, los gerentes de los programas de cuerpos de ciudadanos y otros funcionarios de la Agencia Federal para el Manejo de Emergencias (FEMA, por sus siglas en inglés).

Felicitaciones a los ganadores de este año y a aquellos que recibieron menciones de honor, y gracias a todos por el excelente trabajo que hicieron para preparar a sus comunidades.

Posted by: Public Affairs



We’ve mentioned the Great California ShakeOut several times on the blog, but wanted to put out a friendly reminder now that it’s right around the corner. On Thursday, October 20, at 10:20 a.m. Pacific time, over 8 million people will participate in an earthquake drill to practice how to safely duck, take cover, and hold on in the event of an earthquake.

With the ShakeOut just a few days away, here are a few reminders about the drill:

1. You don’t need to be in California to participate - The recent earthquake on the East Coast shows that earthquakes can happen practically anytime, anywhere, even if you don’t live in California. So we’re encouraging everyone to take part in the ShakeOut and practice how to stay safe during an earthquake.
   
   And be on the lookout for other ShakeOut drills happening soon, including the ones for the Central U.S. and Utah.
   
   
2. There are many ways to engage your family, workplace or school in earthquake safety – Taking part in the ShakeOut is a great first step in knowing how to stay safe in the event of an earthquake. There are also steps you can take to prepare your business, home, or school BEFORE an quake strikes that may lessen the damage and help you recover faster. Ready.gov/earthquakes has information on getting prepared for an earthquake, and we encourage you to check it out.
   
   The ShakeOut website has more details on how you can take part in earthquake safety – maybe it’s hosting an emergency preparedness fair, posting flyers around your workplace or school, or reviewing your family emergency plan on a regular basis.
   
   
3. After the ShakeOut, share your story – Share your photos of how to “Duck, Cover, and Hold On”, or tell your friends/family/coworkers how you joined in the ShakeOut. The photos or stories you share may inspire someone else to get prepared for an emergency.

So join in at www.ShakeOut.org/register and pledge your family, school, business, or organization’s participation in the ShakeOut. We look forward to seeing your story about how you got involved!

Posted by: Don R. Boyce, Administrator, Region I (Maine, New Hampshire, Vermont, Massachusetts, Rhode Island, Connecticut)

Even as the leaves change color in New England, many communities across the region are still working hard, recovering from the damage from this past season’s destructive weather.

At FEMA, we continue to work closely with our state and local partners that are still recovering from the tornadoes that swept through the Connecticut River Valley and the aftermath of tropical storm Irene. Both events affected homes, businesses and communities in all six states in the region. We continue to support individuals and communities affected by these disasters, and the recovery has come a long way, as this video shows:

Between June 1 and October 1, across New England, FEMA and the Small Business Administration has provided the following support:

• 6,302 individuals and families approved for grants totaling $29,160,789
• 434 individuals and families approved for low-interest disaster loans totaling $20,542,400
• 52 businesses approved for low-interest disaster loans totaling $5,684,100

And as of Thursday, October 13, $4,841,388 in public assistance grants have been obligated for 416 local governments and private nonprofits. The numbers will continue to rise; our work here is far from over.

FEMA has set up offices across the region to ensure we’re working closely with our partners at the state, local and tribal levels, as well as voluntary organizations and others in the private sector. We want to ensure that every penny of assistance eligible under law reaches the communities that need them.

As New Englanders work to recover from the impact of the recent storms, FEMA continues to offer assistance and support to local and state partners across the region. We are proud partners in this recovery effort and remain committed to offer support and assistance for the remainder of the recovery effort.

For more on the ongoing recovery efforts, visit our disaster pages:

Connecticut – Tropical Storm Irene
Maine – Tropical Storm Irene
Massachusetts – Severe Storms and Tornadoes
Massachusetts – Tropical Storm Irene
Rhode Island – Tropical Storm Irene
Vermont – Tropical Storm Irene
New Hampshire – Tropical Storm Irene

Publicado por: Don R. Boyce, Administrador de la Región 1 (Maine, New Hampshire, Vermont, Massachusetts, Rhode Island, Connecticut)

Incluso con la llegada del otoño a New England, muchas comunidades de la región todavía trabajan arduamente para recuperarse de los daños que dejó el terrible clima de la pasada temporada.

En la Agencia Federal para el Manejo de Emergencias (FEMA, por sus siglas en inglés) continuamos trabajando en conjunto con nuestros colaboradores estatales y locales que aún se están recuperando de los tornados que azotaron el área de River Valley en Connecticut y las consecuencias de la Tormenta Tropical Irene. Ambos eventos afectaron las viviendas, las empresas y las comunidades de los seis estados de la región. Continuamos apoyando a las personas y las comunidades afectadas por estos desastres y la recuperación ha progresado en gran medida, como se puede ver en este video:


En la zona de New England, entre el 1 de junio y el 1 octubre, FEMA y la Agencia Federal para el Desarrollo de la Pequeña Empresa (SBA, por sus siglas en inglés) han ofrecido la asistencia que se describe a continuación:

• Se aprobaron subvenciones para 6,302 personas y familias por un total de $29,160,789.

• Se aprobaron préstamos por desastre de bajo interés para 434 personas y familias por un total de $20,542,400.

• Se aprobaron préstamos por desastre de bajo interés para 52 empresas por un total de $5,684,100.

Y el jueves, 13 de octubre se habían comprometido $4,841,388 en subvenciones de asistencia pública para 416 gobiernos locales y organizaciones privadas sin fines de lucro. Los números continuarán incrementándose; nuestro trabajo no ha terminado todavía.

FEMA ha instalado oficinas en toda la región para garantizar que trabajen en forma conjunta con nuestros colaboradores tribales, locales y estatales, además de las organizaciones voluntarias y otras instituciones del sector privado. Queremos asegurarnos de que cada centavo de asistencia elegible conforme a la ley llegue a las comunidades que lo necesitan.

Mientras los residentes de New England trabajan para recuperarse del impacto de las tormentas recientes, FEMA continúa ofreciendo asistencia y apoyo a los colaboradores locales y estatales de toda la región. Colaboramos con orgullo en esta iniciativa de recuperación y nos mantenemos comprometidos a ofrecer apoyo y asistencia hasta el fin del labor de recuperación.

Si desea obtener más información sobre las iniciativas de recuperación, visite nuestras páginas relacionadas con los desastres:

Connecticut – tormenta tropical Irene
Maine – tormenta tropical Irene
Massachusetts – severas tormentas y tornados
Massachusetts – tormenta tropical Irene
Rhode Island – tormenta tropical Irene
Vermont – tormenta tropical Irene

Posted by: Public Affairs


Emmitsburg, MD, October 16, 2011 -- The names of firefighters who lost their lives in 2010 are unveiled at the National Fallen Firefighter Memorial. Craig Fugate, FEMA Administrator, and Glenn Gaines, Deputy U.S. Fire Administrator for the U.S. Fire Administration, were in attendance to honor those who lost their lives serving their communities, and support the families they leave behind. (Photo courtesy of Fallen Firefighters Foundation)

Yesterday, the U.S. Fire Administration and the National Fallen Firefighters Foundation hosted a memorial service remembering firefighters who have lost their lives in the line of duty. Administrator Fugate and Glenn Gaines, Deputy U.S. Fire Administrator, were among those in attendance, honoring those who have died in the line of duty to serve their communities, and supporting the families they leave behind.

Administrator Fugate delivered a message from the president as part of Fire Prevention Week – here’s part of that message:

Fires, whether caused by people or nature, can have devastating effects. Hundreds of thousands of fires happen in and around American homes every year, killing or injuring thousands of people and causing untold damage to families and communities. This week, we honor the selfless first responders who put themselves on the line to safeguard us all from fire, and we reaffirm the need for Americans to practice fire safety throughout the year…

This week, our Nation honors the dedicated firefighters and other first responders who do the hard, dangerous work of keeping our communities safe from fire. Many have laid down their lives to save our friends and neighbors, and their selfless sacrifice defines the nature of courage. As we pay tribute to their memories, let us resolve to maintain our vigilance and take proactive steps to stop fire emergencies before they begin.

As we often say at FEMA, emergency management is a team effort, and we wholeheartedly commend the daily sacrifices of first responders working to meet the immediate needs of those affected by a disaster – whether it’s a hurricane, earthquake or home fire.

Here are more images from the memorial service, held at the National Fallen Firefighters Memorial in Emmitsburg, Md.


Emmitsburg, MD, October 16, 2011 -- Glenn Gaines, Deputy U.S. Fire Administrator for the U.S. Fire Administration, stands with Craig Fugate, FEMA Administrator, as they honor firefighters who lost their lives at the National Fallen Firefighter memorial service. (Photo courtesy of Fallen Firefighters Foundation)


Emmitsburg, MD, October 16, 2011 -- As part of the Fallen Firefighters memorial service, firefighters and family members honor those who have lost their lives serving their communities. (Photo courtesy of Fallen Firefighters Foundation)


Emmitsburg, MD, October 15, 2011 -- Firefighters stand at the National Fallen Firefighters Memorial during the Fallen Firefighters memorial service. Craig Fugate, FEMA Administrator, and Glenn Gaines, Deputy U.S. Fire Administrator for the U.S. Fire Administration, were in attendance to honor those who have lost their lives serving their communities and support the families they leave behind. (Photo courtesy of Fallen Firefighters Foundation)


Emmitsburg, MD, October 16, 2011 -- A firefighter displays a flag as part of the National Fallen Firefighters memorial service. Each year, firefighters and their families gather to honor those who have lost their lives serving their communities. (Photo courtesy of Fallen Firefighters Foundation)

Posted by: Public Affairs


Emmitsburg, MD, 16 de octubre, 2011— Los nombres de los bomberos que perdieron la vida en 2010 son descubiertos en el Memorial Nacional de los Bomberos Caídos. Asistieron Craig Fugate, el administrador de FEMA, y Glenn Gaines, Director Adjunto de la Administración de Incendios de los Estados Unidos, para honrar quienes perdieron la vida atendiendo a sus comunidades y para apoyar las familias dejadas atrás (Foto por gentileza de la Fundación Nacional de Bomberos Caídos).

Ayer, la Administración de Incendios de los Estados Unidos y la Fundación Nacional de Bomberos Caídos presentaron un servicio de conmemoración para recordar a los bomberos que perdieron la vida en cumplimiento del deber. Administrador Fugate y Glenn Gaines, Director Adjunto de Incendios de los Estados Unidos, era dos de las personas presentes, honrando a los que han fallecido en el cumplimiento del deber en servicio a sus comunidades, y apoyando a las familias dejadas atrás.

Administrador Fugate compartió un mensaje del Presidente, como parte de la Semana de la Prevención de Incendios. A continuación hay parte de ese mensaje:

Incendios, si causado por seres humanos o la naturaleza, puede tener efectos devastadores. Cada año, cientos de miles de incendios ocurren en o cercanos de casas de estadounidenses, matando o hiriendo miles de personas y ocasionando daños incalculables a familias y comunidades. Esta semana, honramos al personal de emergencia altruista que pone en riesgo sus vidas para protegernos de incendios, y afianzamos la necesidad de que todos practiquen la seguridad contra incendios todo el año.

Esta semana, nuestra Nación honra a los bomberos dedicados y el otro personal de primero auxilio haciendo el trabajo duro y peligroso de proteger nuestras comunidades de incendios. Muchos han sacrificado sus vidas para salvar a nuestros amigos y vecinos, y sus sacrificios altruistas son la definición del valor. Cuando nos brindamos tributo a sus memorias, resolvamos mantener nuestra vigilancia y tomar acciones proactivas para detener las emergencias de incendio antes de empiecen.

Cómo decimos con frecuencia en FEMA, el manejo de emergencias es un trabajo de equipo, y elogiamos sin reservas los sacrificios diarios del personal de emergencias trabajando a responder a las necesidades inmediatas de los afectados por desastre – en cualquier huracán, terremoto, o incendio.

Aquí hay más imágenes del servicio de conmemoración en el Memorial Nacional de los Bomberos Caídos en Emmitsburg, Md.


Emmitsbrug, MD, el 16 de octubre, 2011 – Glenn Gaines, Director Adjunto de la Administración de Incendios de los Estados Unidos, está de pie con Craig Fugate, Administrador de FEMA, cuando honran a los bomberos quienes perdieron sus vidas en el servicio de conmemoración nacional de los bomberos caídos. (Foto por gentileza de la Fundación Nacional de Bomberos Caídos).


Emmitsburg, MD, 16 de octubre, 2011 – Como parte del servicio de conmemoración nacional de los bomberos caídos, bomberos y miembros de la familia honran los que perdieron la vida atendiendo a sus comunidades. (Foto por gentileza de la Fundación Nacional de Bomberos Caídos).


Emmitsburg, MD, 15 de octubre, 2011 – Bomberos están de pie en el Memorial Nacional de los Bomberos Caídos. Craig Fugate, Administrador de FEMA, y Glenn Gaines, Director Adjunto de la Administración de Incendios de los Estados Unidos, estaban presentes para honrar quienes perdieron la vida atendiendo a sus comunidades, y para apoyar las familias dejados atrás. (Foto por gentileza de la Fundación Nacional de Bomberos Caídos).


Emmitsburg, MD, 16 de octubre, 2011 – Un bombero expone una bandera como parte del servicio nacional de conmemoración de los bomberos caídos. Cada año, bomberos y sus familias reúnen para honrar quienes perdieron la vida atendiendo a sus comunidades (Foto por gentileza de la Fundación Nacional de Bomberos Caídos).