Disaster Mitigation Specialists Answer Questions 

Release Date: December 3, 2008
Release Number: 1810-018

» More Information on California Wildfires

PASADENA, Calif. -- Californians are well aware of the dangers from wildfires. To minimize damages from future wildfires and other events like flooding and mudslides, the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) is providing disaster mitigation specialists at displays in two Lowe's hardware stores beginning Thursday, December 4.

"Preparedness is the first step to disaster mitigation. Whether it's insurance, house elevation in a floodplain, or clearing flammable materials from around the home, it all contributes to the homeowner's well-being," said Mark Neveau, federal coordinating officer. "Residents with questions about making their property more secure can talk to our subject-matter experts and pick up federal-state mitigation materials in English and Spanish."

The mitigation displays will be at:

Lowe's of South Chino Hills
4777 Chino Hills Parkway
Chino Hills, California

and

Lowe's of Central Ventura
500 South Mills Road
Ventura, California

Both display sites will be open from Thursday, December 4, to Saturday, December 6, 2008. FEMA personnel will be available to discuss measures to protect residents from wildfires. Other subject-matter experts will provide publications from the federal government and the state of California that address "Defensible Space," "Fire Resistant Landscaping," and building material that retards the propagation of fire.

"Mitigation is an outreach effort shared by FEMA and the State," said Tom Maruyama, state coordinating officer. "California faces the potential of various disaster events -- earthquakes, fires, floods, landslides, heavy snow, high winds and tornadoes. Preparedness heightens awareness, and awareness can save lives. "

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.

Last Modified: Wednesday, 03-Dec-2008 12:59:19