FEMA defines hazard mitigation as “any sustained action taken to reduce or eliminate the long term risk to human life and property from hazards.” 1 States, local governments and Indian Tribal Nations are required to develop an approved Mitigation Action Plan (MAP) as a condition for receiving certain types of non-emergency disaster assistance. Mitigation plans form the foundation of a community’s long-term strategy to reduce the cycle of disaster damage. Fortunately, FEMA funding is available to develop a MAP and help fund qualified mitigation projects as well.
In Disaster Recovery Today, Issue 9, we discussed sections 406 and 404 of the Robert T. Stafford Act,...
While FEMA is best known for emergency assistance after a disaster, the agency’s support of mitigation programs to help identify and reduce risks to life and property before a disaster strikes is equally important. Furthering our theme in Issue 9 of Disaster Recovery Today, which addressed the types of mitigation programs eligible for FEMA funding, this issue provides additional insight into the value of such programs, outlines FEMA’s planning requirements and discusses best mitigation practices that can be used at a community level.
Once again, it is excellent and informative reading for anyone who might have a stake in their community’s preparedness for or consequences from a disaster!
Sheila E. Salvatore Editor