Category: News & Updates
Staying Informed and Communication Strategies
Disasters can strike without warning. No matter where you live in Idaho, whether it is in the mountains, by the rivers, or in the valley, it’s crucial to understand the potential hazards around you and know how to receive emergency alerts. From wildfires to floods, earthquakes to winter storms, and other natural hazards, staying informed is the first step in staying prepared and protecting yours and your loved ones’ safety.
Idaho’s unique geographical location exposes the state and its citizens to a variety of severe weather and other threats. The State of Idaho Hazard Mitigation Plan identifies 13 hazards of concern, forming the foundation for long-term disaster planning and strategy. These threats include:
- Avalanche
- Civil Disorder
- Cyber Threats
- Drought
- Earthquake
- Flood
- Hazardous Materials Release
- Landslide
- Pandemic
- Radiological Accidents
- Severe Weather
- Volcanic Eruptions
- Wildfire
Understanding the Hazards Around You
Each region of Idaho may be more susceptible to certain types of hazards. For instance, while wildfires might be a greater threat in forested or rural areas, flooding could be more likely near rivers and low-lying regions. It’s important to recognize the warning signs of these events and determine whether you would need to shelter in place or evacuate.
Local emergency management offices is a valuable resource in understanding the specific hazards that their community faces. They can help you identify the specific hazards in your area and provide detailed plans and recommendations for how to prepare and respond to each scenario. It’s also important to find out from local emergency managers how citizens can and will be notified in case of a disaster.
Receiving Emergency Alerts
Emergency alerts are critical tools for staying informed during a disaster. These alerts can provide timely information about the nature of the threat, the recommended course of action, and where to find more information.
Idaho offers several ways to stay connected, including the Integrated Public Alert & Warning System (IPAWS), Idaho State Alert and Warning System (ISAWS), and Wireless Emergency Alerts (WEA). IOEM also encourages Idahoans to make sure they’re signed up for these services and following sheriff’s offices, and local and state emergency management offices on social media for daily updates.
To make sure you’re receiving alerts and warnings on your phone, please visit the following how to guides based on your device:
- Apple Users: Change Notification Settings on iPhone – Apple Support
- Android Users: Control Notifications on Android – Android Help
- Samsung Galaxy Users: Use Your Galaxy Phone or Tablet in Emergency Situations – Samsung Support
For specific details or additional guidance on setting up Emergency Alerts & Warnings, please contact your mobile service provider.
Creating a Communication Plan
In addition to staying informed through alerts, it’s important to have a communication plan in place for your family and household. Disasters can disrupt traditional communication methods, so plan how you will check in with each other and establish a meeting point if you become separated.
Tips for an Effective Communication Plan:
- Identify Emergency Contacts. Choose an out-of-town contact who can relay information between separated family members.
- Designate a Meeting Place. Decide on a safe meeting place in case you must evacuate your home.
- Backup Communication Methods. Consider having backup options like walkie-talkies or satellite phones in case cell service is down.
Staying informed isn’t just about receiving alerts; it’s also about staying connected with your community. Engage with your neighbors, share information, and work together to stay prepared. Participate in local emergency drills and help make sure your community is aware of the hazards that could impact them.
By understanding the risks in your area, signing up for emergency alerts, and preparing a communication plan, you can respond to the best of your ability when disaster strikes. Remember, preparedness starts with being informed.
For additional information about staying informed, check out some of these resources:
Building an Emergency Kit
When disaster strikes, being prepared can truly make all the difference. In Idaho, where our risks include everything from wildfires and severe winter weather to earthquakes, having a well-stocked emergency kit can be crucial in how you and your household handle unexpected situations. It’s not only about getting through the immediate crisis but also about staying comfortable, clean, fed, and healthy in the aftermath.
The Idaho Office of Emergency Management (IOEM) encourages all Idahoans to gather essential supplies and keep them in one to two easy-to-carry emergency kit(s), ready for use at home or for quick evacuation in any type of emergency or disaster.
Basics Supplies
- Water (one gallon per person per day for several days, for drinking and sanitation)
- Food (at least a several-day supply of non-perishable food)
- Battery-powered or hand crank radio and a NOAA Weather Radio with tone alert
- Flashlight
- First aid kit
- Extra batteries
- Complete change of clothing appropriate for your climate and sturdy shoes for each person in your home
- Whistle (to signal for help)
- Dust mask (to help filter contaminated air)
- Plastic sheeting, scissors and duct tape (to shelter in place)
- Moist towelettes, garbage bags and plastic ties (for personal sanitation)
- Manual can opener (for food)
- Local maps
- Cell phone with portable chargers and a backup battery
Additional Emergency Supplies
Consider adding the following items to your emergency supply kit based on your own specific, individual needs:
- Soap, hand sanitizer and disinfecting wipes to disinfect surfaces
- Prescription medications. About half of all Americans take a prescription medicine every day. An emergency can make it difficult for them to refill their prescription or to find an open pharmacy. Organize and protect your prescriptions, over-the-counter drugs, and vitamins to prepare for an emergency.
- Non-prescription medications such as pain relievers, anti-diarrhea medication, antacids or laxatives
- Prescription eyeglasses and contact lens solution
- Infant formula, bottles, diapers, wipes and diaper rash cream
- Pet food and extra water for your pet
- Cash or traveler’s checks
- Important family documents such as copies of insurance policies, identification and bank account records saved electronically or in a waterproof, portable container
- Printed copies of important phone numbers for community resources or local emergency contacts (like the nearest shelter or emergency services)
- Sleeping bag or warm blanket for each person
- Fire extinguisher
- Matches in a waterproof container
- Feminine supplies and personal hygiene items
- Mess kits, paper cups, plates, paper towels and plastic utensils
- Paper and pencil
- Books, games, puzzles or other activities for children
Maintaining Your Kit
After assembling your kit remember to maintain it so it’s ready when needed:
- Keep canned food in a cool, dry place.
- Store boxed food in tightly closed plastic or metal containers.
- Replace expired items as needed.
- Re-think your needs every year and update your kit as your family’s needs change.
Kit Storage Locations
Since you do not know always know where you may be when an emergency happens, prepare supplies for home, work, and cars.
- Home: Keep this kit in a designated place and have it ready in case you have to leave your home quickly. Make sure all family members know where the kit is kept.
- Work: Be prepared to shelter at work for at least 24 hours. Your work kit should include food, water and other necessities like medicines, as well as comfortable walking shoes, stored in a “grab and go” case.
- Car: In case you are stranded, keep a kit of emergency supplies in your car.
Assembling an emergency kit is a key step in making sure your and your family are prepared for any situation. Take the time now to build your kit and revisit it regularly to make sure it meets the evolving needs of your family. You’ll be better equipped to protect what matters most when it counts.
For additional information to create an emergency kit, check out some of these resources:
Creating An Emergency Plan
While most people often think “it won’t happen to us,” the reality is that emergencies can strike anyone, anywhere, at any time. Whether it’s a natural disaster, a medical crisis or a widespread power outage, having a well-thought-out emergency plan can make all the difference in keeping your family safe. It is important for Idahoans to be prepared and take the time to create an emergency plan for their household of what to do, where to go, who to contact, and more in the event an emergency does happen.
What Are the Risks of Where You Live?
Before you create an emergency plan it is important to understand the specific risks that you and your community may face, whether it’s wildfires, floods, earthquakes, winter storms, or other natural hazards. It’s important to take these potential events into account by recognizing the warning signs, determining whether you would need to shelter in place or evacuate, and planning how to respond to the impact of these events.
Local emergency management offices may be able to help identify the hazards in your area and offer preparedness information. It may be helpful to also find out from local emergency managers how citizens can and will be notified in case of a disaster.
What Are the Specific Needs of Your Household?
Next, folks will want to consider the specific needs of their family and household. Tailor your plans and supplies to accommodate your daily living needs and responsibilities. It’s also a good idea to work with others to create networks of neighbors, relatives, friends, and co-workers who can assist each other in an emergency. Discuss your needs and responsibilities, and how people in your network can help with communication, childcare, business continuity, pet care, or operating medical equipment. Here are some key factors to consider when customizing your emergency plan:
- Different ages of household members
- Responsibilities for assisting others
- Locations frequented by family members
- Dietary needs
- Medical needs, including prescriptions and equipment
- Disabilities or access and functional needs, including devices and equipment
- Languages spoken
- Cultural and religious considerations
- Pets or service animals
- Households with school-aged children
What Are Your Plans for Places Outside Your Home?
While some emergencies come with warnings, many can happen suddenly and without advance notice. Since you can’t always predict where you’ll be during such events, it’s important to have plans and supplies ready for the different locations you and your household frequently visit. Consider places like workplaces, schools, and community centers. Learn more about the emergency plans at these locations and adapt your personal and household plans to reflect what each member should do if an emergency occurs while they are there.
Additionally, plan for the possibility that you and your family may be separated during an emergency. Choose two specific meeting places: one outside your home for immediate emergencies and another outside your neighborhood for evacuation situations. Designate an out-of-area emergency contact person—someone who lives far enough away that it’s easier to reach them if local phone lines are overloaded or out of service. Be sure that everyone carries this emergency contact information in writing and/or saved on their cell phones.
Create Your Emergency Plan
To start building an emergency plan, address these key questions with your family, friends, or household.
- Determine how you will receive emergency alerts and warnings. Whether through weather apps, local news, or emergency alert systems—to ensure you stay informed of potential threats.
- Establish your shelter plan. Identify safe locations within your home or community where you can take shelter during different types of emergencies, such as severe storms or a power outage.
- Map out your evacuation route. Be sure to include primary and secondary routes to safely leave your home and reach designated safe areas. Practice evacuating your home twice a year.
- Develop a family or household communication plan. Outline how you’ll stay in touch during an emergency, including a designated meeting spot and contact information for all family members.
- Create or update your emergency preparedness kit. Be sure it contains the essentials for your family’s needs, such as food, water, medications, and other critical supplies.
Utilize Ready.gov’s fillable Family Emergency Plan form to help you address some of these questions and create your own plan.
Regularly Review and Practice Your Plan
Creating an emergency plan is an important step in ensuring your family’s safety during unexpected events, but it doesn’t end with just having a plan in place. Be sure to regularly review and update your plan to accommodate any changes in your family’s needs, living situation, or local risks. Schedule periodic check-ins—at least twice a year—to reassess and adjust your plan as necessary. Additionally, practicing your emergency plan through regular drills helps ensure that everyone knows their roles and actions when an actual emergency occurs.
By staying proactive and keeping your plan current, you and your loved ones will be well-prepared to handle any situation that arises, no matter where you are.
For additional information to create an emergency plan, check out some of these resources:
Being Prepared and Resilient During Power Outages
Wildfires and extreme weather can lead to power outages, as seen last month in the Treasure Valley. Strong thunderstorms and damaging winds caused many residents to lose power for several hours. These outages were part of a Public Safety Power Shutoff (PSPS) by Idaho Power to reduce wildfire risks.
A PSPS is a safety measure to protect people and communities in high fire-risk areas by shutting off electricity during extreme weather conditions that could ignite wildfires. Utilities may also deenergize lines to protect equipment from nearby fires or to safeguard crews fighting the fires. Specific weather conditions and geographic factors can lead to more frequent and longer outages or the implementation of a PSPS.
As wildfires and extreme weather events continue, Idahoans should prepare for potential power outages.
Be Prepared in Advance
- Gather enough supplies to last for several days, including non-perishable food, water for household members, pets, and livestock, medications, batteries, flashlights, and car cell phone chargers.
- Be sure your utility provider has your current contact information for notifications. Update your account and contact information online regularly.
- Keep cell phones charged and consider a car charger for emergencies.
- Ensure you have a plan for livestock water needs if well pumps lose power.
- Consider plans to relocate with a family or friend, especially those with medical conditions or who have medication and medical equipment that requires electricity.
- Customers who rely on electricity to store medication or operate medical equipment at home should enroll in their electric provider’s Medical Certificate Program, if available.
- Consider a backup generator for essential power needs.
- Make a plan for watering livestock if well pumps are without power.
- Check with local officials about heating and cooling locations open near you.
During a Power Outage
- Stay clear of downed power lines and anything nearby.
- Keep away from fire personnel and utility crews working to restore service.
- Use flashlights or battery-operated lanterns. Avoid candles and other potential fire hazards.
- Turn off lights and disconnect appliances except for the refrigerator and freezer to prevent a surge when power is restored.
- Keep one light on to indicate when power returns.
- If you have a generator, use it carefully and safely. Only use it outdoors and do not use it near windows, or vents in order to avoid carbon monoxide poisoning.
- Check on elderly neighbors or individuals with special needs to make sure they are safe and taken care of.
- Call your electricity service provider to report an outage, not 911.
Stay Informed
- Contact your electricity provider or log in to your account to make sure your contact information is current for receiving alerts and messages.
- Be sure to follow and monitor your electricity provider social media accounts as well.
By taking these steps, you can help ensure your safety and resilience during power outages. Stay prepared and stay informed to protect yourself, your family, and your community.
FEMA Awards $4.9 Million to Help Local Firefighters and First Responders Obtain Critical Resources
August 7, 2024
NR-R10-24-020
FEMA News Desk: (425) 487-4610
BOTHELL, Wash. – FEMA has awarded $4.9 Million to communities in Alaska, Idaho, Oregon and Washington through the Assistance to Firefighters Grant (AFG) Program to enhance the safety of the public and emergency personnel from fire and related hazards.
Awards went to communities across the region to address a variety of different needs including:
- City of Ketchikan, Alaska – 18 portable radios to enhance communication capabilities between neighboring Alaskan first responders.
- Gem County Fire District, Idaho – 48 sets of wildland personal protective equipment that will improve responder safety and operational effectiveness.
- Central Cascades Fire & EMS, Oregon – Funding to convert a pickup truck into a wildland brush truck.
- King County Fire District 13 and Mountain View Fire and Rescue, Washington – Expanded mental and physical health services in two King County Fire Departments to support job performance, promote healthy lifestyles and increase the resilience of emergency responders.
The primary goal of the AFG Program is to help meet the firefighting and emergency response needs of fire departments and other emergency services organizations. For example, funds from this program can be used to obtain critically needed equipment, protective gear, emergency vehicles, training and other necessary resources.
Additional funded projects will be announced to communities within the coming weeks. Visit FEMA.gov for more information about the AFG Program.
FEMA Authorizes Funds to Fight Gwen Fire in Idaho
July 26, 2024
NR-R10-24-016
FEMA News Desk: (425) 487-4610
BOTHELL, Wash. – The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) authorized the use of federal funds to help with firefighting costs for the Gwen Fire burning in the Nez Perce Reservation and in Nez Perce and Latah counties, Idaho.
The state of Idaho’s request for a federal Fire Management Assistance Grant (FMAG) was approved by FEMA Region 10 Administrator Willie G. Nunn on Friday, July 26, 2024, at 12:23 a.m. PT. He determined that the Gwen Fire threatened to cause such destruction as would constitute a major disaster. This is the second FMAG declared in 2024 to help fight Idaho wildfires.
At the time of the state’s request, the wildfire threatened homes in and around the communities of Juliaetta, Myrtle, Arrow Junction and Lenore and the city of Lapwai. The fire also threatened private and nonprofit public utilities and critical community infrastructure such as roads, bridges, public businesses and recreational areas.
FMAGs are provided through the President’s Disaster Relief Fund and are made available by FEMA to assist in fighting fires that threaten to cause a major disaster. Eligible items can include expenses for field camps; equipment use, repair and replacement; mobilization and demobilization activities; and tools, materials and supplies. This authorization makes FEMA funding available to pay 75 percent of eligible firefighting costs under an approved grant for managing, mitigating, and controlling designated fires. These grants do not provide assistance to individual home or business owners and do not cover other infrastructure damage caused by the fire.
In addition to the firefighting funds authorized under this FMAG, another $985,111 will be available to Idaho through the Hazard Mitigation Grant Program (HMGP) Post Fire for the mitigation of future wildfires and related hazards, such as flood after fire or erosion. Some eligible wildfire project types include defensible space measures, ignition-resistant construction and hazardous fuels reduction. The Disaster Recovery Reform Act of 2018 authorizes FEMA to provide HMGP Post-Fire funds to eligible states and territories that receive Fire Management Assistance declarations and federally recognized tribes that have land burned within a designated area.
FEMA Authorizes Funds to Fight Texas Fire in Idaho
July 17, 2024
NR-R10-24-009
FEMA News Desk: (425) 487-4610
BOTHELL, Wash. – The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) authorized the use of federal funds to help with firefighting costs for the Texas Fire burning in Latah and Nez Perce Counties, Idaho.
The state of Idaho’s request for a federal Fire Management Assistance Grant (FMAG) was approved by FEMA Region 10 Administrator Willie G. Nunn on Tuesday, July 16, 2024, at 8:50 p.m. PT. He determined that the Texas Fire threatened to cause such destruction as would constitute a major disaster. This is the first FMAG declared in 2024 to help fight Idaho wildfires.
At the time of the state’s request, the wildfire threatened homes in and around the community of Kendrick. The fire also threatened several cell towers, radio towers, private transmission lines, and agricultural assets in the area.
FMAGs are provided through the President’s Disaster Relief Fund and are made available by FEMA to assist in fighting fires that threaten to cause a major disaster. Eligible items can include expenses for field camps; equipment use, repair, and replacement; mobilization and demobilization activities; and tools, materials, and supplies. This authorization makes FEMA funding available to pay 75 percent of the state’s eligible firefighting costs under an approved grant for managing, mitigating, and controlling designated fires. These grants do not provide assistance to individual home or business owners and do not cover other infrastructure damage caused by the fire.
In addition to the firefighting funds authorized under this FMAG, another $985,111 will be available to Idaho through the Hazard Mitigation Grant Program (HMGP) Post Fire for the mitigation of future wildfires and related hazards, such as flood after fire or erosion. Some eligible wildfire project types include defensible space measures, ignition-resistant construction, and hazardous fuels reduction. The Disaster Recovery Reform Act of 2018 authorizes FEMA to provide HMGP Post-Fire funds to eligible states and territories that receive Fire Management Assistance declarations and federally recognized tribes that have land burned within a designated area.
###
Follow FEMA Region 10 on X and LinkedIn for the latest updates and visit FEMA.gov for more information.
Idaho Braces for Above-Normal Wildfire Season: How to Stay Safe
The National Interagency Fire Center (NIFC) predicts Idaho and neighboring states will see above normal wildland fires potential now through the end of September. While wildfire season has become a year-round event in areas, the chances of significant wildfires are greater than usual around the state and region during these next few months.
Wildfires can threaten people, homes, and natural resources. It is crucial for everyone to prepare and know what to do, especially during this heightened wildland fire potential period, in case a wildfire strikes their community. The Idaho Office of Emergency Management (IOEM) encourages Idahoans to take proactive measures to ensure the safety of themselves and their loved ones.
Prepare for Wildfires
- Stay Informed: Sign up for and stay up to date for local alerts, such as the Integrated Public Alert and Warning System (IPAWS), and monitor air quality alerts. Follow local news outlets and state and local government social media channels to stay updated on the latest news and events.
- Make a Plan: Make sure your household knows evacuation procedures. Be sure to create and review evacuation plans for offices and schools, and practice evacuation drills regularly.
- Know Your Evacuation Zone: Identify multiple evacuation routes and conduct evacuation drills with household members.
- Strengthen Your Home: Utilize fire-resistant materials, identify outdoor water sources with hoses, establish a 30-foot fire-resistant zone around homes, and designate sealed rooms for smoky conditions.
- Gather Supplies: Stock up on essentials in a go bag, including a first aid kit, non-perishable food, water, phone charger, pet supplies, medication and N95 masks for smoke protection. Keep the go bag in a place that’s easy to remember and access in case you need to evacuate your home quickly.
- Review Important Documents: Keep insurance policies and identification documents up to date and maintain digital copies in secure locations.
How to Stay Safe During a Wildfire
- Stay Informed: Pay attention to emergency alerts and notifications for information and instructions.
- Be Ready to Go: Evacuate immediately and safely when authorities tell you to do so.
- Check with local authorities for the latest information about public shelters or check open locations on the FEMA app. You can also download the free Red Cross Emergency app for a list of open Red Cross shelters in your area.
- Have a plan in place to stay with family or friends where you may be safer and more comfortable.
- If Trapped: Call 9-1-1 and give your location but be aware that the emergency response could be delayed or impossible. Turn on lights to help rescuers find you.
- Smoke Preparedness: Use an N95 mask to protect yourself from smoke inhalation or limit your exposure. Learn more about staying safe in smokey conditions.
Staying Safe After a Wildfire
- Wait for Clearance: Do not return home until authorities say it is safe to do so.
- Drive Safely: Watch out for broken traffic lights, missing street signs, and trash or debris on the road.
- Protect Yourself: Stay away from hot ash, charred trees, smoldering debris, and live embers. The ground may contain heat pockets that can burn you or spark another fire.
- Protective Clothing: Wear protective clothing, such as a long-sleeved shirt, long pants, work gloves, and sturdy thick-soled shoes, during clean-up efforts.
- Monitor Air Quality: Check your local air quality at airnow.gov or on your phone’s weather app. Use a respirator to limit your exposure, and wet debris to minimize breathing dust particles. People with asthma, COPD, and other lung conditions should take precautions in areas with poor air quality, as it can worsen symptoms.
- Take steps to reduce your exposure to smoke. Smoke can stay in the air for days after a wildfire ends.
- Document Damage: Document property damage with photographs. Conduct an inventory and contact your insurance company for assistance.
- Communication: Send text messages or use social media to reach out to family and friends. Phone systems are often busy following a disaster. Make calls only in emergencies.
By staying informed, prepared, and resilient, people can significantly reduce the risks associated with wildfires to reduce the risks associated with wildfires and protect themselves and their loved ones.
For more information on preparing for a wildfire event, visit the following resources:
IOEM Reminds Residents to Stay Safe During National Lightning Safety Awareness Week
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
JUNE 21, 2024
Contact: Tristan Lewis
(208) 803-5216
tlewis@imd.idaho.gov
IOEM Reminds Residents to Stay Safe During National Lightning Safety Awareness Week
BOISE, ID – As National Lightning Safety Awareness Week approaches, the Idaho Office of Emergency Management (IOEM) urges all Idahoans to take precautions to stay safe and informed about the dangers of lightning. This year, National Lightning Safety Awareness Week runs from June 23 to June 29.
Lightning is a powerful and often underestimated natural event. According to Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA), in the United States, an average of 33 people are killed and 182 people are injured each year by lightning. Although most lightning victims survive, people struck by lightning often report a variety of long-term, debilitating symptoms.
Lightning also poses significant risks to property and the environment. In Eastern Idaho, 47% of wildfires between 2000 and 2020 were caused by lightning. These fires often occur during dry seasons, increasing risk and danger.
Idaho experiences its share of lightning hazards, with the Vaisala Corporation reporting 845,469 lightning events in the state in 2023. High elevation areas are particularly prone to lightning strikes.
Safety Tips Before, During, and After Thunderstorms:
Before Thunderstorms and Lightning:
- Know Your Risk: Thunderstorms can happen year-round and at any hour. Be aware of your area’s risks.
- Stay Informed: Sign up for community warning systems and listen to Emergency Alert System (EAS) and NOAA Weather Radio alerts.
- Prepare Your Property: Trim trees that might fall on your home and consider installing surge protectors, lightning rods, or a lightning protection system.
During Thunderstorms and Lightning:
- When Thunder Roars, Go Indoors: Seek shelter in a building immediately.
- Indoor Safety: Avoid using plumbing or landline phones, as electricity can travel through these systems. Unplug appliances and other electric devices.
- Water Safety: If you are boating or swimming, get to land and find grounded shelter immediately. If necessary, seek shelter in a hard topped car, but avoid touching anything metal inside the vehicle.
- Flood Safety: Avoid flooded roadways. Remember, “Turn Around Don’t Drown” – just six inches of fast-moving water can knock you down, and one foot can sweep away your vehicle.
After Thunderstorms and Lightning:
- Stay Updated: Listen to authorities and weather forecasts to determine when it is safe to go outside. Suspend outdoor activities for at least 30 minutes after hearing the last clap of thunder.
- Report Hazards: Watch for and report fallen power lines and trees immediately.
IOEM encourages everyone to create and review safety plans and educate family members about the precautions to take before, during, and after a thunderstorm. By staying informed and prepared, we can build a safer, more resilient Idaho.
FEMA Seeks Leaders for Youth Preparedness Council
BOTHELL, Wash. – FEMA is accepting applications for the Youth Preparedness Council (YPC), a program that brings teens together from across the nation who are interested and engaged in community preparedness.
Council members are selected based on their dedication to public service, their efforts in making a difference in their communities and their potential to expand their impact as national leaders for emergency preparedness. Students in grades eight through 11 are eligible to apply.
FEMA Administrator Dianne Criswell recognizes the important role that the YPC plays in shaping our future.
“The Youth Preparedness Council is a unique opportunity for teens across America to get a sense of what it’s like to be an emergency manager. It also lets us take a glimpse into the future of our profession —and let me say, the future is bright,” said Administrator Criswell. “These young leaders give me so much hope that we’ll be able to create a more prepared, resilient America that the next generation needs and deserves. I’m looking forward to watching this new Council come together and seeing what they’re able to accomplish.”
During their one-year term, council members collaborate with each other to develop projects that promote preparedness on a local, regional, and national scale. Members also engage with leaders within FEMA, the federal government, and national non-profit organizations.
Youth interested in applying to the council must submit a completed application form and provide two letters of recommendation. All applications and supporting materials must be submitted no later than March 4. New council members will be announced by June 2024.
Youth living in FEMA Region 10 (Alaska, Idaho, Oregon, and Washington) may be invited to join the FEMA Region 10 YPC, a similar council that focuses specifically on creating projects within these four states.
To access the application materials, read about the current council members, and for more information about the Youth Preparedness Council visit the Youth Preparedness Council page on FEMA.gov.
###
Follow FEMA Region 10 on X and LinkedIn for the latest updates and visit FEMA.gov for more information.
FEMA’s mission is helping people before, during, and after disasters.