FEMA Prepares to Respond in Support 0f West Coast Communities
Release Date: January 4, 2008
Release Number: HQ-08-003
Washington, D.C. -- The Department of Homeland Security's Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) is coordinating with state and local officials in anticipation of a response to potentially devastating storms battering the West Coast states. From Southern California to Washington state, FEMA and its partners are encouraging individuals and communities to prepare for the severe storms forecasted to begin Friday.
FEMA's Region IX has staff pre-placed in Southern California with the state Office of Emergency Services at its Pasadena Joint Field Office; and in Northern California, FEMA has activated its Regional Response Coordination Center (RRCC) in Oakland to assist state needs and coordinate federal response activities in the region. Disaster response experts from the regional office have also been deployed to the California Southern Region Operations Center and the State Emergency Operations Center in Sacramento.
FEMA's Region X has activated its RRCC to maintain situational awareness and keep communications open with Oregon and Washington emergency managers. The Emergency Support Functions, teams comprised of federal and nongovernmental response partners, have been alerted for potential activations by FEMA.
As the effects of the storm mount and needs are identified, FEMA regions X and IX will work with these partners to mobilize assets and coordinate the federal response family. The US Coast Guard has issued general guidance to boaters off the coast and more information can be found at
www.uscg.mil
.
The storms are expected to bring heavy rains, high winds and dangerous conditions. Flooding and debris flows can happen quickly. Being prepared can save lives and property. While federal, state and local officials are preparing for the storm, individuals should also take steps to plan for emergencies. The following are preparedness steps individuals can take now to protect their homes and families:
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Tune in to radio and television broadcasts that provide vital emergency information. Have a battery-powered radio on hand in case of power outages.
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Know the evacuation routes in your area. Stay informed and listen to local officials regarding emergency evacuations.
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Find out what you can do to be safe, such as creating family disaster plans. A wealth of information on preparing for a flood or other disasters is available online at
www.ready.gov
and
www.fema.gov
. These Websites have reading materials for families, pet owners, business and community leaders, plus checklists and practice exercises.
FEMA coordinates the federal government's role in preparing for, preventing, mitigating the effects of, responding to, and recovering from all domestic disasters, whether natural or man-made, including acts of terror.
 
