Category: Press Releases
Idaho Office of Emergency Management Announces New Bureau Chief
Boise, Idaho – The Idaho Office of Emergency Management is pleased to announce Ben Roeber as the new bureau chief. Roeber will succeed Director Brad Richy, who is set to retire at the end of March after more than 12 years of service.
Roeber is a seasoned emergency management and public safety professional with decades of experience. In his most recent role as Preparedness and Protection Branch chief at IOEM, Roeber oversaw the development, maintenance, and updating of state disaster plans. He was responsible for coordinating emergency plans across all sectors of government for effective resource sharing and assistance in the event of any emergency or disaster.
“Brad Richy has been steadfast in Idaho’s emergency management community, dedicating more than a decade to strengthening our state’s preparedness and response capabilities,” said Maj. Gen. Tim Donnellan who oversees IOEM as adjutant general of Idaho. “As we look to the future, Ben Roeber brings invaluable experience and leadership to IOEM. I have no doubt he will continue the agency’s mission of keeping Idahoans safe and prepared.”
Prior to IOEM, Roeber spent nearly 10 years serving as a sheriff for the Boise County Sheriff’s Office. His extensive background in emergency management and homeland security, combined with his leadership skills and experience collaborating with local, state and federal partners makes him well-suited to lead IOEM into the future.
“I am honored to take on this role and continue the important work of IOEM in protecting the people and communities of Idaho,” Roeber said. “I look forward to building on the foundation that Director Richy has established.”
Richy’s retirement marks the end of a transformative chapter for IOEM. Under his leadership, the agency responded to numerous emergencies and disasters, earning a reputation as a trusted partner in Idaho’s emergency management efforts. Richy’s dedication to strengthening preparedness and resilience has left a lasting legacy within the agency and across the state.
“Brad Richy’s leadership and dedication have strengthened Idaho’s emergency preparedness, ensuring our communities are ready to respond when disaster strikes,” said Idaho Gov. Brad Little. “I want to thank him for his years of service and welcome Ben Roeber as he steps into this critical role. I am confident that under Ben’s leadership, IOEM will continue to protect and support Idahoans in times of need.”
Roeber will serve as acting chief while Richy is on terminal leave, with a formal retirement ceremony for Richy scheduled at the end of March.
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The Idaho Office of Emergency Management is part of the Idaho Military Division. The services we provide are to facilitate emergency management in Idaho, and to assist neighboring states. The women and men of this Division are dedicated to their mission of protecting the lives and property of the people of Idaho, as well as preserving the environmental and the economic health of Idaho.
Idaho Mobilizes Firefighting Teams to Support California’s Wildfire Efforts
BOISE, Idaho – The State of Idaho is mobilizing five task forces to assist in protecting communities threatened by wildfires burning in Southern California.
In response to a request from the California Governor’s Office of Emergency Services through the Emergency Management Assistance Compact, the Idaho Office of Emergency Management and the Idaho Fire Chiefs Association have coordinated efforts to evaluate available resources across the state. As of Wednesday evening, 104 firefighters and 25 fire engines are preparing to deploy Thursday morning to support California’s response efforts. The task forces are set to arrive in Southern California on Friday. IOEM and IFCA will continue monitoring the situation and stand ready to provide additional assistance as needed.
The task forces are being mobilized from fire agencies across Idaho, such as the City of Emmett and Kootenai County as well as the Idaho National Laboratory.
“Emergencies like these remind us of the critical importance of teamwork and mutual aid,” said IFCA President Kirk Carpenter. “Idaho firefighters are prepared to join the fight in California, standing shoulder to shoulder with our partners to protect communities in harm’s way.”
“The Emergency Management Assistance Compact has been invaluable in ensuring that states can rely on each other during crises,” said IOEM Director Brad Richy. “After receiving support during our own wildfire seasons, Idaho is proud to return the favor by providing resources and personnel to help protect California’s communities.”
IOEM received the request for support through the Emergency Management Assistance Compact. EMAC is a vital interstate compact that provides a proven mutual aid framework allowing states to share resources during times of disaster or emergency. All costs associated with deploying resources under EMAC are paid for by the requesting state.
IOEM continues to monitor additional requests from the affected areas. Further support may be deployed if needed.
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The Idaho Office of Emergency Management is part of the Idaho Military Division. The services we provide are to facilitate emergency management in Idaho, and to assist neighboring states. The women and men of this Division are dedicated to their mission of protecting the lives and property of the people of Idaho, as well as preserving the environmental and the economic health of Idaho.
Contact
Tristan Lewis
Cell: (208) 803-5216
tlewis@imd.idaho.gov
SBA to Open Disaster Loan Outreach Center in Lewiston
SACRAMENTO, Calif. – Francisco Sánchez Jr., associate administrator for the Office of Disaster Recovery and Resilience at the Small Business Administration, today announced the opening of its Disaster Loan Outreach Center to meet the needs of businesses and individuals who were affected by the Gwen Fire that occurred July 24-Aug. 9. The center will be located at the Public Health-Idaho North Central District beginning Tuesday, Dec. 3 and close at 5 p.m. Monday, Dec. 23.
“When disasters strike, our Disaster Loan Outreach Centers are key to helping business owners and residents get back on their feet,” Sánchez said. “At these centers, people can connect directly with our specialists to apply for disaster loans and learn about the full range of programs available to rebuild and move forward in their recovery journey.”
“SBA customer service representatives will be on hand at the following center to answer questions about SBA’s disaster loan program, explain the application process and help each individual complete their electronic loan application,” Sánchez continued. The center will be open on the days and times indicated. No appointment is necessary.
NEZ PERCE COUNTY
Disaster Loan Outreach Center
Open: Dec. 3 – 23, 2024 | Monday – Friday, 8:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m. PT*
Location: Public Health Bld, 215 10th St, Lewiston ID 83501 (corner of Idaho St & 10th St)
*DLOC will open at noon PT on Tuesday, Dec. 3, 2024
Businesses of all sizes and private nonprofit organizations may borrow up to $2 million to repair or replace damaged or destroyed real estate, machinery and equipment, inventory and other business assets.
For small businesses, small agricultural cooperatives, small businesses engaged in aquaculture and most private nonprofit organizations of any size, SBA offers Economic Injury Disaster Loans to help meet working capital needs caused by the disaster. Economic injury assistance is available regardless of whether the business suffered any property damage.
“SBA’s disaster loan program offers an important advantage–the chance to incorporate measures that can reduce the risk of future damage,” Sánchez added. “Work with contractors and mitigation professionals to strengthen your property and take advantage of the opportunity to request additional SBA disaster loan funds for these proactive improvements.”
SBA disaster loans up to $500,000 are available to homeowners to repair or replace damaged or destroyed real estate. Homeowners and renters are eligible for up to $100,000 to repair or replace damaged or destroyed personal property, including personal vehicles.
Interest rates can be as low as 4 percent for businesses, 3.25 percent for private nonprofit organizations and 2.688 percent for homeowners and renters with terms up to 30 years. Loan amounts and terms are set by SBA and are based on each applicant’s financial condition.
Interest does not begin to accrue until 12 months from the date of the first disaster loan disbursement. SBA disaster loan repayment begins 12 months from the date of the first disbursement.
On October 15, 2024, it was announced that funds for the Disaster Loan Program have been fully expended. While no new loans can be issued until Congress appropriates additional funding, we remain committed to supporting disaster survivors. Applications will continue to be accepted and processed to ensure individuals and businesses are prepared to receive assistance once funding becomes available.
Applicants are encouraged to submit their loan applications promptly for review in anticipation of future funding.
Applicants may apply online and receive additional disaster assistance information at SBA.gov/disaster. Applicants may also call SBA’s Customer Service Center at (800) 659-2955 or email disastercustomerservice@sba.gov for more information on SBA disaster assistance. For people who are deaf, hard of hearing, or have a speech disability, please dial 7-1-1 to access telecommunications relay services.
The deadline to apply for property damage is Jan. 21, 2025. The deadline to apply for economic injury is Aug. 22, 2025.
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About the U.S. Small Business Administration
The U.S. Small Business Administration helps power the American dream of business ownership. As the only go-to resource and voice for small businesses backed by the strength of the federal government, the SBA empowers entrepreneurs and small business owners with the resources and support they need to start, grow, expand their businesses, or recover from a declared disaster. It delivers services through an extensive network of SBA field offices and partnerships with public and private organizations. To learn more, visit http://www.sba.gov.
Information and Resources
Media Contact
Eslam M. ElFatatry
(916) 735-1500
Eslam.ElFatatry@sba.gov
IOEM and Boys and Girls Club Host Hands-On Earthquake Preparedness Event
Idaho Office of Emergency Management and Boys and Girls Club of Kuna Host Hands-On Earthquake Preparedness Event
KUNA, ID –The Idaho Office of Emergency Management and the Boys and Girls Club of Kuna will join forces Wednesday, Oct. 16, 2024, at 2:15 p.m. to host an event at the new Boys and Girls Club of Kuna facility, located at 470 W. Mendi Pl. in Kuna, to provide a series of interactive activities aimed at teaching students about earthquake safety, mitigation strategies, and the importance of emergency preparedness.
The event will kick off with an assembly followed by hands-on activities, including building earthquake-resistant structures and exploring flood simulation tables that demonstrate the effects of flooding and related mitigation efforts. Experts from the State of Idaho Office of Technology Services, Kuna Fire Department, Ada County Emergency Management and Community Resilience Office, Idaho Power, and more will also be on hand to showcase additional preparedness activities and resilience-building strategies.
To add to the excitement, IOEM is excited to launch the Idaho Earthquake Awareness Competition, a statewide contest that encourages all K-12 Idaho to research and share valuable information on how to be earthquake-ready. This competition invites students to showcase their knowledge of earthquake preparedness and mitigation through creative projects, with opportunities to win recognition and prizes.
Earthquake Awareness Competition Guidelines:
- Students are asked to create a presentation that raises awareness about earthquake preparedness and offers creative ideas on how the public can prepare for, mitigate, respond to, and recover from earthquakes in Idaho.
- Participants can work individually or in teams of two, with guidance from a teacher mentor.
- Entries should include a poster or diorama that visually demonstrates the key points of their presentation.
Entries are open for the Earthquake Awareness Competition now through Wednesday, Oct. 23 at 5:00 p.m. For more information and to enter the competition, visit ioem.idaho.gov/earthquake-awareness.
Students in grades 4-12 are also encouraged to participate in the state’s Geographic Information Systems Online Competition which runs through April 2025. For more information and rules for the GIS competition, visit gis.idaho.gov/gis-online-competition-for-idaho-students.
The preparedness event and the Idaho Earthquake Awareness Competition are part of the broader effort surrounding the Great ShakeOut, an annual event encouraging millions worldwide to participate in earthquake drills at work, school, or home. This year’s ShakeOut will take place on Thursday, Oct. 17, 2024, at 10:17 a.m. local time. Participants are encouraged to remember the simple steps: Drop Cover and Hold On.
To register for the Great Idaho ShakeOut, visit shakeout.org/idaho.
Great ShakeOut: Join the World’s Largest Earthquake Drill
Every year, on the third Thursday of October, people come together to practice earthquake safety and to prepare for the next big earthquake. This year the international Great ShakeOut is happening on Thursday, October 17, 2024, at 10:17 a.m. local time and gives Idahoans a chance to join millions around the world in the largest earthquake drill ever.
Whether you’re at home, work, school, or in a public space, everyone can take part in this life-saving drill. For those unable to join on October 17, holding a drill on a more convenient day is always an option.
Taking steps now to prepare for earthquakes can prevent a disaster from becoming a catastrophe. Earthquakes strike without warning, leaving little time to react. Practicing earthquake-safe actions, like the Drop, Cover, Hold On drill, can make all the difference when real shaking occurs.
How to prepare:
Registration is available at ShakeOut.org/register for families, workplaces, and organizations. Last year, more than 66,000 Idahoans participated—let’s see if we can get even more this year! After registering, participants will receive guidance on preparation, actions to take during and after an earthquake, and updates about the ShakeOut.
Check out others in the community who are participating at ShakeOut.org/whoisparticipating and help spread awareness by encouraging neighbors, friends, and coworkers to join the effort.
Don’t wait until the shaking starts, register today and practice earthquake safety with your community.
September is National Preparedness Month
September is National Preparedness Month
Prepare, plan, protect: IOEM encourages Idahoans to develop a plan, build a kit, stay informed, and get involved this National Preparedness Month.
BOISE, ID – Disasters in recent years, both in Idaho and across the country, are a reminder of the importance of being prepared. Idaho Office of Emergency Management (IOEM) is recognizing September as National Preparedness Month, which provides an opportunity for individuals and families to ensure they are aware of the threats and hazards in their communities. Whether you’re at home, at work, in school, on vacation, or on the road, having a plan in place is crucial.
“Something as simple as an emergency preparedness kit for your vehicle and home is crucial,” said IOEM Director Brad Richy. “Emergency managers, firefighters, law enforcement officers, paramedics, and other emergency responders do an outstanding job of keeping us safe, but they cannot do it alone. We encourage all Idahoans to discuss their family’s emergency plan should a disaster occur.”
Throughout September, IOEM will share important preparedness information and tips on Facebook, X, and LinkedIn to help Idahoans prepare for the unexpected. Each week, IOEM will focus on different themes to guide Idahoans in taking essential steps towards readiness.
- Week 1 (Sept. 1 – 7): Creating Emergency Plans
Idahoans are encouraged to discuss and document how they will communicate during an emergency, where they will go, and what steps they will take in different scenarios. Whether you’re at home, work, or school, having a well-thought-out plan makes sure that every member of your household knows what to do in case of an emergency. - Week 2 (Sept. 8 – 14): Building Emergency Kits
Idahoans should gather essential items such as water, non-perishable food, medications, flashlights, batteries, and important documents. Kits should be prepared for both the home and vehicle for readiness in various situations. - Week 3 (Sept. 15 – 21): Staying Informed
Idahoans are encouraged to learn or review how they receive alerts and warnings, understand the types of emergencies that could affect your area, and having a reliable communication strategy. - Week 4 (Sept. 22 – 28): Community Involvement and Volunteering
The final week of September encourages Idahoans to get involved and volunteer in their communities.
For more information on National Preparedness Month, please visit IOEM’s National Preparedness Month webpage.
Public Affairs Office Contact
Public Affairs Officer
Tristan Lewis
Cell: (208) 803-5216 | Office: (208) 258-6585
tlewis@imd.idaho.gov
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.
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Follow FEMA Region 10 on X and LinkedIn for the latest updates and visit FEMA.gov for more information.
Celebrate Safely: Four Safety Tips for the Fourth of July Holiday
BOTHELL, WA– With extreme heat events on the rise across the country this summer, FEMA reminds everyone to prioritize safety while making holiday and summer plans. You should exercise caution for any outdoor events and celebrations involving fireworks, grilling, or campfires, because these popular summer activities can also pose a fire hazard.
According to the National Fire Protection Association, fireworks cause an estimated 31,302 reported fires in the United States each year. Furthermore, with extreme heat serving as the leading weather-related cause of death, any outdoor summer gathering can become deadly.
During wildfire season, it is important that residents proactively plan and prepare for the holiday and summer weather. FEMA encourages you to follow a few tips to stay safe:
- Leave the work to the professionals and enjoy the show! Attend a public display of fireworks in your community to reduce the risk of injury. If you decide to use consumer fireworks, follow local regulations. Thousands of individuals are injured by fireworks each year on the Fourth of July –and children and teens are more likely to be among this group. Educate young ones on fireworks safety ahead of the holiday and ensure there is always adequate adult supervision during festivities.
- Location, location, location. Map out and plan your outdoor adventures and gatherings by prioritizing safety. Build campfires at least 25 feet away from tents, shrubs, or anything that can burn. Place your barbecue grill away from any overhanging branches, eaves, siding, or deck railings. Follow grilling fire safety guidelines and maintain a 3 feet safety zone around the grill to keep children and pets safe.
- Know the signs of heat-related illnesses. Monitor the weather and take extra precautions during extreme heat-related events. Wear lightweight, loose-fitting, light-colored clothing and a wide-brimmed hat. Become familiar with the signs of heat-related illnesses and practice caution when temperatures rise above 90 degrees Fahrenheit.
- Stay hydrated and seek shade. Drink lots of water to stay hydrated. Seek shade to take breaks and cool down while having fun in the sun.
Visit ready.gov for additional tips on how to beat the heat and practice fire safety. FEMA wishes you a happy and safe Fourth of July and summer.
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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.