Category: Press Releases
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.
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.
President Biden Approves Disaster Declaration for Idaho
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
JUNE 12, 2024
Contact: Tristan Lewis
(208) 803-5216
tlewis@imd.idaho.gov
BOISE, ID – President Joe Biden has approved the State of Idaho’s Major Disaster Declaration to help three Idaho counties and areas affected by a severe storm in April that brought substantial damage.
The counties covered in the Presidential Disaster Declaration include Idaho, Lewis, and Shoshone Counties. Conditions from the April 14-15 severe storm included flooding, landslides and mudslides. A Joint Preliminary Damage Assessment conducted by Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA), Idaho Office of Emergency Management (IOEM), and local representatives in April confirmed the total damage across the three counties surpassed $6.6 million.
“The approval of the Presidential Disaster Declaration request is a crucial step toward helping the affected areas rebuild and recover from April’s severe storm,” said Governor Brad Little.
The President’s approval authorizes public assistance federal funding, such as the Public Assistance (PA) Program, to the state, local, and tribal governments, and certain private nonprofit organizations on a cost-sharing basis for emergency work and the repair or replacement of facilities damaged by the severe storm, flooding, landslides and mudslides in the three counties.
Federal funding is also available on a cost-sharing basis for hazard mitigation measures statewide, such as the Hazard Mitigation Grant Program. The Grant Program provides funding to state, local, and tribal governments to develop hazard mitigation plans and rebuild to reduce or mitigate future disaster losses in their communities.
“The spring flooding wreaked havoc, causing devastating damage in these areas,” said IOEM Director Brad Richy. “This funding will be critical for infrastructure repairs. IOEM is committed to working alongside FEMA to support local jurisdictions’ recovery efforts and help them rebuild stronger.”
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The Idaho Office of Emergency Management is a Division 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.
The Public Private Partnership Security and Resilience Seminar Series Returns for Another Year
BOISE, ID – The Idaho Office of Emergency Management (IOEM) is excited to announce the 2024 Public Private Partnership Security and Resilience Seminar Series, an educational initiative aimed at enhancing community preparedness and resilience. Sponsored by IOEM, this series is a collaborative effort with the Oregon Department of Emergency Management, Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency (CISA), and Albertsons Companies, involving volunteer speakers with lived experience on key business and industry security and resilience topics.
Building on the success of the 2023 PSPR2 Seminar Series, which attracted widespread international participation, the 2024 series promises to deliver an even more dynamic and informative program. Featuring subject matter experts from industry, academia, and government sectors, the series will cover critical infrastructure best practices, lessons learned, and introduce valuable preparedness resources and tools to mitigate risk and enhance resilience.
The four-part series will dive into a diverse range of topics, including an introduction to violence prevention strategies and resources, the safety and security impacts of houselessness on businesses and organizations, and two seminars focusing on the rapidly growing field of artificial intelligence. Participants can expect to gain invaluable insights and practical knowledge from each session, with the flexibility to attend individual courses or the entire series.
The schedule for the 2024 seminar series is as follows:
- Session 1: May 9 – Introduction to Violence Prevention Strategies and Resources
- Session 2: June 13 – The Safety and Security Impacts of Houselessness on Businesses and Organizations
- Session 3: September 12 – Safely Leveraging Artificial Intelligence in the Workplace
- Session 4: October 10 – Emerging Cybersecurity Threats: Preparing for the Malicious Use of Artificial Intelligence
Courses are not cumulative and may be taken individually. Each course counts toward continuing education with CEU credits.
To register for the series, please click here. For those with questions or in need of more information, please contact training@ghinternational.com. Don’t miss this opportunity to enhance your organization’s preparedness and resilience.
For recordings of the 2023 PSPRS Seminar Series sessions, please click here.
Governor Little Declares March 17 – 23 as Idaho Flood Awareness Week
BOISE, ID – In recognition of the potential risks associated with spring flooding, Governor Brad Little has officially designated March 17 – 23, 2024 as Flood Awareness Week in Idaho. The proclamation underscores the importance of understanding and preparing for the dangers posed by flooding. In conjunction with the week, the Idaho Office of Emergency Management (IOEM) urges all Idahoans to take proactive measures to safeguard themselves, their families, and their properties.
“As temperatures rise, we’re reminded of Idaho’s flood history,” said IOEM Director Brad Richy. “While spring snow melts are crucial for irrigation and ecosystem health, rapid thawing can lead to dangerous flooding. It’s crucial for Idahoans to stay prepared for flood risks annually.”
IOEM has teamed up with the Idaho Silver Jackets, an interagency flood risk management team, to help educate the public about measures to reduce the effects of flooding and flood-related hazards. One of the Silver Jacket’s primary goals is to develop comprehensive and sustainable solutions to flood hazard issues and communicate flood risk.
“With the rapid growth of our state, there are many Idahoans unaware of their current flood risk,” said Idaho Silver Jackets Coordinator, Russel Lodge. “I encourage everyone to educate themselves by researching floodplain maps, creating a plan for any kind of emergency, and always plan for flood risk particularly during travel or in areas they are not familiar with. Flooding throughout the state is a recurring, serious event that has significant implications with the loss of life and severe economic consequences.”
According to Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA), flooding is the leading cause of severe weather-related deaths each year in the United States. To ensure safety during flood events, it is important to follow these basic guidelines:
- Never drive through flooded roadways, even if it looks shallow. Just a few inches of fast-moving water can wash away a heavy truck. Turn Around, Don’t Drown!
- Stay informed by monitoring local news sources for up-to-date weather information.
- If flooding happens, get to higher ground fast.
- Respect and adhere to any barriers or warnings issued by law enforcement.
- Always have an emergency kit in your home and your vehicle in case you need to evacuate to higher ground quickly.
IOEM has created a comprehensive list of tips and resources about flood preparedness and safety.
This week also aims to raise awareness among Idaho residents regarding the importance of securing flood insurance for their properties. FEMA ranks flooding among the most common and costly natural disasters, with just one inch of water capable of inflicting up to $25,000 in damage to a home.
Whether flooding is from the flowing waters of rivers, rainfall or from snowmelt, being aware of your own flood risk and what you can do about is extremely important. It is important to remember that floods occur naturally and can happen almost anywhere – flooding may not even be near a body of water. IOEM strongly encourages all homeowners, renters, and business owners to purchase flood insurance.
For more information and flood preparedness resources, please visit www.floodsmart.gov.
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.
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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.
IOEM PIER team during Operation Shared Response Exercise
Idaho Office of Emergency Management to Assist Kansas following Flooding and Tornadoes
NEWS RELEASE
Idaho Office of Emergency Management
For immediate release May 31, 2019
Contact: Elizabeth C. Duncan
(208) 258-6595 eduncan@imd.idaho.gov
Idaho Office of Emergency Management to
Assist Kansas following Flooding and Tornadoes
BOISE – Governor Brad Little has approved an Emergency Management Assistance Compact (EMAC) agreement with Kansas to assist with recovery efforts following flooding and tornados.
Ben Roeber, the Preparedness and Protection Branch Chief for the Idaho Office of Emergency Management (IOEM) and former Boise County Sheriff, leaves for Kansas today to provide support and subject matter expertise in the Kansas State Emergency Operations Center following devastating tornadoes that hit Tuesday night. Roeber will serve as a liaison between counties and the state EOC.
“Idaho is proud to assist our fellow Americans in their time of need,” Governor Little said. “We support the Emergency Management Assistance Compact agreement because we believe in neighbors helping neighbors and states helping states. Idaho’s highly skilled and experienced state employees will be able to share their expertise with Kansas as they work through these challenges.”
The EMAC is an all-hazards mutual aid agreement between states. Through EMAC, states can share any resource available with another state following a Governor’s declaration of a disaster or emergency. More information is available at https://www.emacweb.org/
The Kansas EOC remains at Level I Full Activation in response to flooding that was part of a weather system that began Tuesday night, spawning tornadic activity that caused widespread destruction in both Douglas and Leavenworth counties.
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The Idaho Office of Emergency Management is a Division 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.