FEMA Deploys Disaster Damage Assessment Teams
Release Date: December 18, 2008
Release Number: R1-08-066
BOSTON, Mass. -- In the wake of last week's destructive ice storm, the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) has assembled damage assessment teams in several New England states to survey the level of disaster damage. The teams began assessments in New Hampshire and Massachusetts this morning and are poised to visit other affected states if requested.
"We have been in close contact with the states since before the storm even hit and have had staff at several state emergency operations centers." said FEMA Region I Administrator Art Cleaves. "Now these assessment teams will be going directly to communities to see damage caused by the storm. These assessments are the next step in the process to deliver federal assistance to New England."
Preliminary damage assessments are a joint effort between local, state and federal officials. During an assessment, teams will be looking at a number of things:
- Impact on the infrastructure of affected areas or critical facilities such as roads, bridges and state and local buildings;
- Level of insurance coverage in place for public facilities;
- Assistance available from other sources federal and state agencies.
The deployment of the assessment teams is the latest action by FEMA in response to the ice storm. President Bush has already granted emergency declarations for Maine, Massachusetts and New Hampshire opening the door for immediate federal aid for emergency response activities. Federal agencies have provided cots, blankets, water and food for emergency shelters and generators to power critical facilities.
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: Thursday, 18-Dec-2008 14:08:40