Disaster Mitigation Specialists Answer Questions
Release Date: February 27, 2009
Release Number: 1817-040
» More Information on Washington Severe Winter Storm, Landslides, Mudslides, and Flooding
OLYMPIA, Wash. -- Washingtonians are well aware of the dangers from flooding. To minimize damages from future flooding, the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) is providing disaster mitigation specialists at displays in two Ace Hardware stores beginning Tuesday, March 3. These specialists will offer advice and free publications to assist citizens in rebuilding "stronger, safer and smarter" after the January 2009 flooding.
"Preparedness is the first step to disaster mitigation. Whether it's elevating a house in a floodplain, improving drainage around a home or buying flood insurance, it all contributes to the homeowner's well-being," said Federal Coordinating Officer Willie Nunn. "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 specialists will be at the stores Tuesday, March 3 through Saturday, March 7. Tuesday through Friday, they will be there 7:30 - 6:00. Saturday hours will be 7:30 - 1:00. They will be at the following two stores:
Lincoln Creek Lumber/ Ace Hardware
1621 Harrison
Centralia, WA 98531
and
Ace Hardware
600 Triangle Center
Longview, WA 98632
"Mitigation is an outreach effort shared by FEMA and the state," said State Coordinating Officer Kurt Hardin. "Washington faces the potential of various disaster events - floods, landslides, heavy snow, high winds, earthquakes and fires. Preparedness heightens awareness, and awareness can save lives."
FEMA leads and supports the nation in a risk-based, comprehensive emergency management system of preparedness, protection, response, recovery, and mitigation to reduce the loss of life and property and protect the nation from all hazards including natural disasters, acts of terrorism, and other man-made disasters.
Last Modified: Monday, 02-Mar-2009 08:50:58