Emergency managers warn against reducing FEMA’s role in disaster recovery

State and local officials question FEMA’s future under President Trump According to States Newsroom, President Donald Trump has suggested reducing the role of the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA), stating that states should handle disaster response independently while the federal government provides financial reimbursement. He has called FEMA a “disaster” and convened a council to […]
Federal support for wildfire survivors nears $700 million

As of February 7, federal assistance to eligible homeowners, renters and businesses, in the form of FEMA grants and low-interest SBA Disaster Loans, has reached $683,276,321. On January 8, the Los Angeles County wildfires were declared a major disaster by the President and a surge of additional federal resources commenced. The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) […]
Trump considers dismantling FEMA during visit to hurricane-hit North Carolina

Trump’s visit to North Carolina raises questions about FEMA’s future During a visit to Fletcher, North Carolina, on January 24, President Donald Trump suggested dismantling or significantly reforming the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA). The remarks were made during a briefing on recovery efforts following Hurricane Helene, which caused widespread damage in the region. Trump […]
FEMA provides recovery guidance for Southern California wildfire survivors

FEMA outlines assistance options for wildfire recovery With recovery efforts underway in Southern California following the ongoing wildfires, FEMA has issued recovery guidance for survivors. FEMA has distributed more than $5.3 million to survivors for essentials such as food, water, and temporary housing. FEMA assistance may be available for uninsured individuals or those whose insurance […]
Federal response to Los Angeles wildfires: FEMA Fire Administrator speaks

Current situation of Los Angeles wildfires Los Angeles is grappling with multiple wildfires that have devastated communities and forced large-scale evacuations, with fires destroying thousands of structures and displacing tens of thousands of residents. In a conversation with NPR, Dr. Lori Moore-Merrell, the FEMA Fire Administrator, described the affected areas as resembling “a war zone” […]
FEMA accepting applications for Youth Preparedness Council

FEMA’s Youth Preparedness Council application process FEMA is currently accepting applications for its National Youth Preparedness Council (YPC) until March 3. The YPC program gathers young people from across the United States who are dedicated to enhancing community preparedness. Eligible applicants include students in grades eight through 11, with selection based on their commitment to […]
Fire Equipment Manufacturers’ Association honors Greg Rogers

Rogers recognized for contributions to fire safety advocacy The Fire Equipment Manufacturers’ Association (FEMA) has announced Greg Rogers as the recipient of the 2024 Fire Safety Advocate Award. Rogers has dedicated over 26 years to fire safety and prevention and is recognized for his leadership in community risk reduction initiatives. Highlighting portable fire extinguishers’ role […]
FEMA announces new appointments to National Advisory Council

FEMA names 10 new members to advisory council FEMA Administrator Deanne Criswell announced 10 new appointments and three returning members to the National Advisory Council (NAC) on December 31, 2024. The NAC advises FEMA on emergency management, including preparedness, response, recovery, and mitigation. According to FEMA, the council represents diverse perspectives with 40 members from […]
FOCUS 3.0 safety culture survey now available for U.S. fire departments

The FOCUS survey returns to fire departments nationwide The Center for Firefighter Injury Research & Safety Trends (FIRST) at Drexel University has relaunched the Fire Service Organizational Culture of Safety (FOCUS) survey. As reported by the U.S. Fire Administration (USFA), this initiative is supported by FEMA’s Assistance to Firefighters Grant Program. It is designed to […]
FEMA shares safety guidance for holiday preparations

Simple steps for safer holiday travel FEMA Region 5 has shared essential safety tips to help families prepare for a safe and enjoyable holiday season. Tom Sivak, FEMA Region 5 Regional Administrator, stated: “Reducing the risk of emergencies through smart traveling, cooking and heating practices can be simple, yet effective for keeping your celebrations safe […]